Stimulated biofeedback training for a child with Becker muscular dystrophy and compartment syndrome in the left forearm

ABSTRACT

Background

Muscular dystrophy negatively affects ambulation, mobility, self-care, and community involvement. Neonatal compartment syndrome (NCS) causes loss of muscle strength, sensory problems, and limb dysfunction. Patients with Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) and/or NCS may benefit from individualized rehabilitation to improve function.

Purpose

This case report describes stimulated biofeedback training (SBT) to improve the functional level, muscle strength, balance, and hand function in a child with BMD and NCS.

Case Description

An 8-year-old male patient with BMD and NCS in the left forearm received 12-weeks of SBT. The functional level was assessed by the Motor Function Measurement-32 (MFM-32), muscle strength by a hand-held dynamometer, balance by the Neurocom Balance Master, and upper limb function by the Quality of Upper Extremity Skills Test (QUEST) at the initial examination, after 6 weeks and after 12 weeks of treatment. Laboratory tests to monitor changes in serum creatine kinase were performed throughout the episode of care.

Outcomes

The laboratory values remained within the appropriate range to continue SBT. Functional level, hand function, hip, and knee flexion/extension strength, and dorsiflexion strength improved.

Conclusions

This case report suggests that SBT safely and effectively improved functional level, muscle strength, and hand function in this child with BMD and NCS.

KEYWORDS:

• Case report
• neuromuscular electrical stimulation
• biofeedback
• muscular dystrophy
• neuromuscular disease
• compartment syndrome

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the patient, and his parents, for participating in this rehabilitation program.

Declaration of Interest

None of the authors has any conflict of interest to disclose.