Improving the motor skill of children with posterior fossa syndrome: a case series

Pediatr Phys Ther. 2014 Winter;26(4):462-8. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000000092.

Abstract

Children who receive treatment for medulloblastoma have a high survival rate, but also a high likelihood of developing posterior fossa syndrome, a condition that includes devastating balance and motor problems. This case series used 2 novel neuromodulation devices in conjunction with an intensive physical therapy intervention for 2 children who were 5 years post tumor treatment with a diagnosis of posterior fossa syndrome. Pre- and postclinical measures, in addition to magnetoencephalography brain imaging, describe positive behavioral and neuroplastic changes resulting from the intervention. The positive outcomes in these cases suggest that further study is needed using neuromodulatory devices and long-term rehabilitation in children with balance and movement disorders resulting from cancer treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Brain Diseases / etiology*
  • Brain Diseases / rehabilitation*
  • Child
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetoencephalography
  • Medulloblastoma / complications*
  • Motor Skills
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*
  • Self-Help Devices*
  • Tongue