Art # 339 pp. 2252. – 2255

Abstract

Problem Statement. Polyneuropathies are characterized by sensory- motor and trophic symptoms, prevalent in the bilaterally symmetric distal extremities. Polyneuropathies may cause muscle deficits leading to tetraplegia or paraplegia, accompanied by hypotonia and muscle atrophies, osteo-tendinous areflexia, as well as subjective and objective sensory impairments, which are also symmetric and bilateral in nature. Lack of any signs of pyramidal tract dysfunction is an essential condition in establishing diagnosis. One of the principles of kinetic treatment is that it must be set in place early in order to prevent joint stiffness, musculotendinous retraction and secondary muscle atrophies. The purpose of the study was to highlight how important and effective kinesiotherapy is for patients with polyneuropathy. Research method – the study relied on the following methods: bibliographic, case study, tests, conversation, observation and graphical. Material. The study was conducted on a 57-year old patient diagnosed with polyneuropathy, who carried out a 12- month recovery program. The assessment tests used were: Katz index, Osserman score, Tinetti balance test, Tinetti gait test and the primary goal of rehabilitation was to re-educate walking and regain independence in performing activities of daily living. Outcomes. Comparison of the initial tests to the final ones showed a significant improvement of the patient with polyneuropathy, as he went from being dependent on another person to partially independent in performing the activities of daily living; this means an improvement in strength and muscle tone, coordination, balance and the quality of walking. Discussions. According to the literature, recovery treatment for patients with polyneuropathy must begin immediately after the diagnosis was established, in order to prevent motor damage from getting worse. Conclusions. Kinesiotherapy in polyneuropathies essentially aims to improve some motor damage caused by the disease, which narrow down the functional freedom degree and independence of patients both in their own home, and outside it. Administration of a kinetic program, closely monitored and personalized depending on the subject’s individual particularities, has successfully contributed to significant results with regard to the increase of the quality of life for the patient with polyneuropathy.