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Effectiveness of Physical Therapy on Ataxia-Telangiectasia: A Case Report
Sefa Unes1, Merve Tuncdemir, Nesibe Gevher Eroglu-Ertugrul
1Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation (Mr Unes, Ms Tuncdemir, and Dr Kerem Gunel), Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey; Department of Pediatric Neurology (Dr Eroglu-Ertugrul), Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Turkey.
Background And Purpose:
This case report investigated the benefits of a 12-week physical therapy program for a child with ataxia-telangiectasia (AT).
Case Description:
A 9-year-old girl with a diagnosis of AT participated. The physical therapy program consisted of balance and strength exercise and Wii Fit Balance-based video games training with a pediatric physical therapist for 12 weeks.
Measurements:
The motor performance, Gross Motor Function Measurement (GMFM), Pediatric Berg Balance Scale (PBBS), Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS), participation as measured by the Life Habits Questionnaire (LIFE-H), and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL).
Outcomes:
Positive changes were observed in the TCMS, PBBS, GMFM, and motor performance, participation, and quality of life.
Conclusions:
Notable improvements were observed in both body structure and function, and activities and participation level.
What This Adds To Evidence:
This case report is the first to support the effectiveness of physical therapy in a child with AT.
