Background: Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) occurs when the spinal cord or its blood supply is compressed from surrounding structures such as vertebrae, intervertebral disks, facets, or ligaments. Over half of non-traumatic spinal cord injuries result from DCM, most commonly affecting older individuals. Depending on the severity, surgical intervention is recommended to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage. Despite the frequency of this condition, there is little research available on best rehabilitative practice following surgery, though individuals commonly have remaining impairments in functional mobility. Case Description: A 54-year-old male was evaluated in outpatient physical therapy services following surgical intervention for DCM. The patient presented to the emergency department a month prior due to a rapid onset of symptoms, including a fall. Imaging revealed compression on the spinal cord in the cervical and thoracic spine. He underwent a cervicothoracic decompression and fusion. After 2 weeks in inpatient acute rehabilitation, in which therapists addressed bed mobility, transfers, balance, and gait, the patient discharged to home with his mother and started outpatient physical therapy. He was found to have impaired functional mobility, balance, gait, and endurance. Intervention: The patient participated in intervention targeted at addressing gait and balance, for safety with returning to living independently. After 16 weeks of physical therapy, the patient had improved in balance, strength, and coordination, and was performing gait without an assistive device. He was able to return to his home independently and to working full time. Outcome Measures: Outcome measures used for assessment of gait, balance, and power included the 6-Minute Walk Test, the Berg Balance Scale, and the 5 Times Sit to Stand. Discussion: This case demonstrates the need for further research on best practice for rehabilitation following surgical intervention for DCM to promote positive long-term outcomes for individuals.
Dissertation
Post-Surgical Physical Therapy Management for a Male with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Case Report
University of Iowa
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) , University of Iowa
Autumn 2023
Free to read and download, Open Access
Abstract
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Post-Surgical Physical Therapy Management for a Male with Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: A Case Report
- Creators
- Clare Morehouse - University of Iowa
- Contributors
- Shauna Dudley-Javoroski (Advisor) - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Project Type
- Case Report
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) , University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Science
- Date degree season
- Autumn 2023
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- 10 pages
- Copyright
- Copyright © 2023 Clare Morehouse
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Doctor of Physical Therapy Case Reports
- Record Identifier
- 9984560346502771
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