Gait Training With Motor Relearning Program in Conjunction With Functional Electrical Stimulation in Quadriparesis Secondary to Cervical and Lumbar Myelopathy

Abstract

Degenerative cervical myelopathy is a frequently encountered age-related pathology following compression of the spinal cord. This case report delineates the clinical manifestation of cervical and lumbar myelopathy in a 78-year-old male patient, characterised by chief complaints of difficulty in moving bilateral upper and lower extremities and difficulty in bed mobility. Motor impairment can manifest in three different presentations, which are paraparesis, hemiparesis, or quadriparesis. The motor relearning program incorporating functional electrical stimulation constitutes a rehabilitative approach used for the restoration of motor function. This study outlines the protocol for the physiotherapy intervention protocol, mainly focusing on gait training. Along with it, balance training, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, etc., were also included. The goal of physiotherapy rehabilitation was to improve the patient's ability to do tasks related to daily living. The outcome measures used were the dynamic gait index, functional independence measure, and Modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association score. We document significant increases in muscular tone and power, improved active range of motion, enhancements in gait parameters, and notable advancements in the individual's functional independence through the implementation of a physiotherapeutic regimen.