Rehabilitation of spastic tetraplegia in pediatrics: advantages of hydro-kinesitherapy

By, Franceska DERVISHALIAJ

Abstract

Background: At the base of this study there is the rehabilitation of spastic tetraplegia observed in a pediatric setting. Spastic tetralgia is a severe form of cerebral palsy (PCI), including all four limbs and is characterized by rigidity or permanent contraction of the affected muscles. The latter is a persistent but not immutable disorder of posture and movement due to alterations in brain function due to pre-, peri- or post-natal causes before the growth and development of the central nervous system is completed. Objective: To demonstrate how a treatment of at least 6 months can give satisfactory results, even in pathological conditions such as tetraplegia. Attention is paid to treatment methods, and therefore to the rehabilitation of this pathology from the point of view of physio-kinesitherapy. Methodology: An investigation and an experimental study was conducted using interviews and treatments of referred patients 2-10 years old. The interviews were carried out with parents coming from Tirana and the suburbs. Data collected showed us the specific needs of each child living with the family and it was created a tailored rehabilitation plan for each of them. Results: Despite suffering from a severe condition, there have been significant improvements in the generic framework, especially on the activities of daily life, thus alleviating the difficulties these children are facing. The handling of each child with empathy and personalized care is needed to obtain satisfactory results. Conclusion: Results showed how all the children taken in charge had an improvement in their quality of life. Their communication and even collaborative skills have improved.

How to cite: Dervishaliaj, F. (2020). Rehabilitation of spastic tetraplegia in pediatrics: Advantages of hydro-kinesitherapy. Medicus, 4(1), 53–62.

https://doi.org/10.58944/wwvz6561