Faculty Advisor(s)

Brian T. Swanson

Document Type

Course Paper

Publication Date

12-4-2015

Rights

© 2015 Matt Denning

Abstract

Background and Purpose: A Diagnosis of stage IV Glioblastoma and its treatment often results in many impairments and functional limitations. This case report describes the effectiveness of strengthening, balance, and gait training activities measured by Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and ambulation distances on an individual 62 year old diagnosed with stage IV glioblastoma. The aim of this case study was to implement strengthening, balance, and gait training to improve balance and reduce risk of falls in a patient who had a diagnosis of stage IV glioblastoma, a metastatic brain tumor resulting in progressive neurological impairments. Case Description: A 62 year old male, with a diagnosis of glioblastoma received balance training, strengthening, and gait training exercises 40 minutes per session 6 times a week for 8 weeks. The patient would performed gait training, balance and strengthening exercises using neuro-developmental treatment, facilitated movement, and task oriented interventions each session. The BBS and ambulation distances were utilized to assess patient’s balance, coordination, and fall risk. Outcome: Improvement in balance and coordination were observed, with increased stability in developmental postures and increased ambulation distances tolerated. Overall there was a decrease in the patients Berg Balance Scale score 27/56 to 18/56. Discussion: The findings suggest there are possible benefits of strengthening, balance and gait training activities, including improvements in tolerance to ambulation, coordination and balance following practice in developmental postures. However there was no objective evidence of improvements in independent functional activities and a decline in their BBS score perhaps due to the progressive nature of the disease. Further research should be done to examine the relationship between physical therapy interventions and functional restoration for patients with glioblastoma.

Comments

The case report poster for this paper can be found here:

http://dune.une.edu/pt_studcrposter/64/

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