Rehabilitation in progressive supranuclear palsy: case report
Izzo, K.L.; DiLorenzo, P.; Roth, A.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 67(7): 473-476
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-9993 PMID: 3729694 Document Number: 277180
Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a distinct clinicopathologic entity characterized by supranuclear ophthalmoplegia, pseudobulbar palsy, axial dystonia in extension, and subcortical dementia. Although relatively rare, PSP is disabling, thus rehabilitation techniques and management are indicated in nearly every case. This report describes the neurologic presentation, rehabilitation management, and outcome of treatment of a patient with PSP during a 12-month period. The patient required thorough neuromuscular, neuropsychological, speech, swallowing, vision, and social service evaluations prior to the implementation of a rehabilitation program. Therapeutic rehabilitation techniques focused on limb coordination activities, tilt board balancing, ambulation activities, and activities to improve route finding and visual scanning ability. Prism lenses were introduced to compensate for deficits in vertical eye movements. Treatment improved the patient's functional status. Later, as the patient's neurologic status deteriorated, it became necessary to educate the family and caretakers in the ongoing rehabilitation management of the patient.