Neuromusculoskeletal disorders following SARS: a case series

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rheumatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Sudden acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a severe respiratory illness.
• Neuromusculoskeletal sequelae can persist after SARS infection.
• Understanding these long-term effects is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the presentation of neuromusculoskeletal complaints in healthcare workers post-SARS.
• To detail conservative treatment strategies for these sequelae.
• To inform practitioners about potential pathogenesis and treatment in chiropractic settings.

Main Methods:

• Case series of three healthcare workers with prior SARS diagnosis.
• Assessment of neurological, muscular, and joint findings.
• Conservative treatment focused on reducing muscle hypertonicity and enhancing joint mobility.

Main Results:

• Treatment involved spinal manipulative therapy, soft tissue therapy, modalities, and rehabilitation.
• Patients reported subjective improvements in pain and disability.
• Outcomes included reduced pain ratings, improved disability indices, and return to work.

Conclusions:

• Conservative chiropractic care can provide subjective relief for SARS-related neuromusculoskeletal complaints.
• Spinal manipulative therapy and rehabilitation show potential in managing post-SARS sequelae.
• This case series highlights the importance of addressing neuromuscular issues following SARS.