Physioteherapy assessment of canavan disease: Case report

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to present symptoms related to physiotherapy of Canavan Disease (CD) and evaluation of these symptoms. Methods: In physiotherapy evaluations of the child included gross motor function measurement (GMFCS), muscle tone evaluation with Modified Ashworth Scale, Reflex Evaluation (Patellar reflex, Achilles reflex and clonus), musculoskeletal system assessment (range of motion measurement, anthropomorphic measurements and muscle shortness tests). Results: The disability level of our case according to the GMFCS was level V. The patients were hypotonic. Except the tonus and reflex evaluation, asymmetry was found between the right and left side in other measurement. Conclusion: To prevent the secondary deformities in CD, we believe that it is important to create a physiotherapy program aimed including correct positioning for 24 hours and the symmetric loading to the musculoskeletal system.