Short-Term Effects of A Neurophysiotherapy Program On Spasticity Reduction In A Child With Dandy Walker Syndrome

Introduction: Dandy Walker Syndrome (DWS) comprises three main disorders: complete or partial damage to the cerebral vermis, cystic dilatation of the fourth ventricle, and increased posterior cavity of the brain. can be defined as epileptic encephalopathy, which consequently leads to progressive disturbances in brain function. The syndrome affects the development of the cerebellum, which is responsible for coordination of movement, balance, muscle tone and proprioception. According to available data, there are currently no published studies and evidence-based neurophysiotherapy regarding efficacy in reducing spasticity in children with DWS. Methods: We performed a case study where we used the mixed methods research paradigm, more precisely the convergence model and investigated the effectiveness of 12-month contemporary NDT and compared it with the effects of 12-month contemporary NDT in combination with hydrotherapy (Watsu method) on reducing spasticity in upper and lower extremity muscles. Results: Based on the analysis of the results of the modified Ashworth and Tardieu scale, we find that the mentioned neurophysiotherapy program is effective in the short term to reduce the spasticity of specific muscle groups. Conclusions: The existing case study provides us with clinically relevant information on the functional progress of a child with DWS due to the spasticity reduction of specific muscle groups. Due to the progress in the ICF-CY (model) field of body structure, function and the field of activity, it was achieved with hydrotherapy that the boy also made progress in the field of participation.