Effect of functional stabilization training on balance and motor patterns in a patient with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

OBJECTIVES: Balance and motor disturbances are significant symptoms commonly associated with hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSN), also known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Although CMT is a progressive neurological disease, comprehensive physiotherapeutic strategies may improve balance and motor patterns, and, therefore, enhance the quality of life (ADL).

CASE PRESENTATION: A 55-year-old HMSN patient with confirmed CMT X phenotype was evaluated for locomotor stability on a stabilometric platform. Stability tests were repeated after a 3-week, intensive in-patient rehabilitation program and the results were compared.

CONCLUSIONS: Improvements in "modified clinical testing of sensory interaction on balance", "limits of stability" and "forward lunge" tests were observed. Subjectively, the patient noted a significant improvement in both balance and gait.