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Effects of Mirror Therapy-Based Upper Extremity Exercises After Thoracotomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Neriman Temel Aksu1, Zeliha Başkurt2, Hakan Keskin3
1Neriman Temel Aksu, Research Assistant Doctor, Akdeniz University Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Antalya, Turkey.
Summary
Mirror therapy exercises improve shoulder function and reduce pain and fear of re-injury after thoracotomy surgery. This therapy enhances quality of life for patients undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Physical Therapy
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Thoracotomy surgery can lead to significant shoulder pain and functional limitations.
- Shoulder pain post-thoracotomy is associated with neuroplastic changes, affecting muscle activation and potentially central sensitization.
- Mirror therapy is increasingly utilized for upper extremity injuries, offering visual feedback to aid rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of mirror therapy integrated with standard exercises for upper extremity rehabilitation after thoracotomy.
- To assess the impact on shoulder pain, function, quality of life, and kinesiophobia (fear of re-injury).
Main Methods:
- A single-blind, randomized controlled prospective study involving 80 patients undergoing posterolateral thoracotomy.
- Patients were divided into a control group and a study group (n=40 each) receiving standard pulmonary rehabilitation for 4 weeks.
- The study group additionally performed upper extremity exercises using mirror therapy.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in shoulder flexion and abduction muscle strength were observed in the mirror therapy group post-intervention (p < .050).
- Statistically significant differences favoring the mirror therapy group were found in most outcomes, including pain, shoulder function, and quality of life, compared to the control group.
- No significant difference was noted between groups for shoulder external rotation muscle strength.
Conclusions:
- Mirror therapy, when added to standard physiotherapy post-thoracotomy, effectively alleviates shoulder pain and reduces kinesiophobia.
- This therapeutic approach enhances shoulder function and improves the overall quality of life for patients recovering from thoracotomy.
- The findings support the integration of mirror therapy into rehabilitation protocols for post-thoracotomy patients to optimize recovery and functional outcomes.
