A Multidisciplinary Extended Approach to Physiotherapy Rehabilitation in Guillain-Barre Syndrome as Sequelae of COVID-19: A Single Case Study

Nikita Kachhwani; Pallavi Bhakaney; Vaishnavi Yadav

doi:10.18502/jmr.v18i2.15984

Nikita Kachhwani Department of Cardio-Respiratory Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, DMIMS, Sawangi (Meghe), India.
Pallavi Bhakaney Department of Cardio-Respiratory Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, DMIMS, Sawangi (Meghe), India.
Vaishnavi Yadav Department of Cardio-Respiratory Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, DMIMS, Sawangi (Meghe), India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/jmr.v18i2.15984

Keywords: Functional independence; Guillain-Barre syndrome; Rehabilitation; Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

Introduction: Coronaviruses can cause widespread systemic infections, the most common of which are respiratory complications, which are close to the symptoms of serious acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV).

Case Description: We report a case of a 16-year-old boy who developed weakness in bilateral lower limbs, difficulty in coughing, and generalized weakness for 2 days. He was diagnosed with post-COVID Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis manifested a CSF protein of 117 mg/dL, a white blood cell count of 6-7/mm3 , and a glucose of too low to comment. Magnetic resonance investigation of the brain revealed mucosal thickening in the bilateral maxillary, ethmoid, and left frontal sinuses. Nerve conduction studies concluded evidence of sensory-motor polyneuropathy. Physiotherapy intervention included patient education, breathing retraining, airway clearance techniques, positioning, a combination of chest proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) techniques, a walking program with supplemented oxygen, and psychological support.

Results: Outcome measures have shown enhancement in functional independence and performance of activities of daily living.

Conclusion: The evidence from this study suggests that pulmonary rehabilitation plays a pivotal role in managing a patient who is diagnosed with post-COVID GBS, which includes patient education, breathing retraining, airway clearing techniques, a combination of chest PNF techniques, positioning, a walking program with augmented oxygen, and psychological support.