IMPACT OF REHABILITATION THERAPY ON FUNCTIONAL RECOVERY IN TRAUMATIC PARAPLEGIA PATIENTS IN KERALA

Abstract

Traumatic paraplegia, a debilitating condition often resulting from spinal cord injury, presents significant challenges to individuals' physical function, independence, and quality of life. Rehabilitation therapy plays a crucial role in maximizing functional abilities and promoting well-being in these individuals. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of rehabilitation therapy for individuals with traumatic paraplegia in selected hospitals in Kerala, India. The primary objective is to evaluate the impact of rehabilitation therapy on physical mobility, functional independence, and psychological well-being among individuals with traumatic paraplegia. Additionally, the study aims to identify the challenges faced during rehabilitation and explore the role of multidisciplinary care in recovery. Motor recovery in traumatic spinal cord injury is reported to reach its plateau by 1 year and maximum recovery period is reported to be 2 years. Acute rehabilitation is very well documented in literature with patients reporting for functional rehabilitation immediately after shock period is over. However, the scenario being a bit different in rural areas with comparatively less awareness about role of physiotherapy, patients with reports at later stages. Reported here is a series of chronic cases who showed remarkable clinical and functional recovery in short time. Aim of this study is to report recovery in patients with chronic and to compare the patient outcomes with expected outcomes. Baseline assessment at admission and at discharge was recoded. Improvement was recorded with spinal cord independence at different time points.