Role of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in SAPHO Syndrome- A Rare Condition

Abstract

SAPHO syndrome (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis) is heterogenous, rare entity with manifestations of Pustulo-Psoriatic Hyperostotic Spondyloarthritis (PPHS) and Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis (CRMO). It can occur in all the age groups with unknown etiology. Hereby, author presents a case of 37-year-old female who reported with the complaint of bilateral knee pain and lower back pain. Laboratory investigations revealed elevated Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels. Bone scintigraphy and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed bone lesions, The diagnosis of SAPHO syndrome was made. The present article highlights the role of physical therapy as a non-pharmacological treatment modality to reduce pain, the intensity of which was measured by Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). The Range Of Motion (ROM) was measured by digital inclinometer and her Quality of Life (QoL) was measured by the 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) scale. Eight weeks postprotocol showed significant improvement in pain, ROM and QOL. This suggests a positive outcome of rehabilitation in SAPHO syndrome.