Efficacy of a combined physical and occupational therapy intervention in patients with subacute neuralgic amyotrophy: a pilot study

BACKGROUND: Neuralgic Amyotrophy (NA) is characterized by neuropathic pain, subsequent patchy paresis and possible sensory loss in the upper extremity. Many patients experience difficulties in performing activities of daily life and are unable to resume work. We developed a combined physical- and occupational therapy program for patients recovering from NA.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary intervention program for patients with subacute NA.

METHODS: We performed a within subject proof-of-principle pilot study in eight patients with subacute NA. Patients followed 8 hours of physical and 8 hours of occupational therapy spread over a 16-week period.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES: The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Shoulder Rating Questionnaire (SRQ).

SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURE: Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH).

RESULTS: Improvements (mean (95% CI)) were found in the performance and satisfaction scores of the COPM +2.3 (0.9-3.7) and +1.4 (0.4-2.4) points, respectively and the SRQ +14.8 (7.4-22.0) points. The majority of patients (6 out of 8) also demonstrated improvements in the DASH.

CONCLUSION: The proposed physical and occupational therapy program, may be effective for patients with subacute NA, as demonstrated by improvements in activity, performance and participation.