Functional independence in left dorsolumbar congenital kyphoscoliosis – An occupational therapy perspective : A case report

Abstract

Congenital scoliosis is caused by early embryologic errors in formation of vertebral column. The goal of treatment is to improve the children's quality of life and to give them the best chance to develop as an independent adult. The objectives were to assess the effects of occupational therapy (OT) intervention on balance, gait, and activities of daily living (ADL) in a case of congenital scoliosis. A 14-year-old young female studying in 10th standard diagnosed as left-sided dorsolumbar congenital kyphoscoliosis with apex of scoliosis at 11th dorsal segment level was assessed. She presented with lower extremity spasticity, imbalance, and scissoring gait. Assessment was done using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Modified Barthel Index (MBI). Immediate postoperative OT intervention was started inclusive of balance and gait training. Significant improvement was observed on BBS score preoperatively before therapy from score 11 to post therapy score 50 after therapy was initiated and MBI score preoperatively 11 to post therapy 20 after ADL training at 8 months of therapy.