Background and purpose: This case report investigated the benefits of a 12-week physical therapy program for a child with ataxia-telangiectasia (AT).
Case description: A 9-year-old girl with a diagnosis of AT participated. The physical therapy program consisted of balance and strength exercise and Wii Fit Balance-based video games training with a pediatric physical therapist for 12 weeks.
Measurements: The motor performance, Gross Motor Function Measurement (GMFM), Pediatric Berg Balance Scale (PBBS), Trunk Control Measurement Scale (TCMS), participation as measured by the Life Habits Questionnaire (LIFE-H), and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL).
Outcomes: Positive changes were observed in the TCMS, PBBS, GMFM, and motor performance, participation, and quality of life.
Conclusions: Notable improvements were observed in both body structure and function, and activities and participation level.
What this adds to evidence: This case report is the first to support the effectiveness of physical therapy in a child with AT.
Copyright © 2021 Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy of the American Physical Therapy Association.