A nearly full-recovery from AVM hemorrhagic stroke 17 years after insult using a new integrated neurodevelopmental approach: A case report

This study investigated a novel approach to chronic-phase stroke rehabilitation using traditional child motor-learning techniques, play, and proprioceptive-building activities in addition to current stroke rehabilitation techniques. During an initial six-month period, followed by a three-year period, the participant used motor-developmental learning activities as well as traditional strength, gait, and balance training. During the initial phase of treatment, clinically-significant improvements were recorded along with self-reported lifestyle enhancements. These gains continued throughout the three-and-a-half year process. Outcomes: C regained the ability to free-walk in small bouts and went from the use of a walker to canes. He regained use of his hands and removed a large partion of his vertigo. Of specific interest was the participant's ability to progress from using a walker to driving, returning to school, and starting a family. Lessons: This study lays the groundwork for future studies into this type of therapeutic approach as well as highlighting the ability of chronic-phase stroke patients to recover well into the second decade post stroke. After the initial six month period, as gains were being observed, a more formal measurement process was begun for a second six-month period. Initial measurements of progress were taken every six weeks using the Fugl-Meyer test, the Berg Balance Test, the Barthel Index, and the Stroke Specific Quality Of Life scale. Results showed ...
Source: Medicine - Category: Internal Medicine Tags: Research Article: Clinical Case Report Source Type: research