Neuro physiotherapy in Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy -- a Case Report

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a prevalent, debilitating, potentially severe, and frequently dose-limiting adverse reaction to several first- and second-line chemotherapy drugs with limited access to efficient, satisfactory treatment. Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation technique was found significant in reducing peripheral neuropathy symptoms and improves quality of life, despite differences in the processes of damage. Here, we describe the application of Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques in a 56-year-old female patient suffering from Stage II uterine cancer admitted to the Chemotherapy ward for a second cycle of chemotherapy and were referred for Neurophysiotherapy in order manage chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy symptoms. The patient had complaints of pain along with weakness in the lower limbs and tingling in both the feet along with difficulty in maintaining balance while walking. So Physiotherapy rehabilitation was initiated after 3 days of beginning of anti cancer medications. After the four-weeks of physiotherapy sessions, the patient reported total remission of pain, a significant decrease in tingling and numbness in both lower extremities. CIPN can and often does persist for many years, even though it usually resolves gradually over time. It seems improbable that this was a spontaneous resolution given the consistency of his symptoms before starting physiotherapy sessions and their quick improvement with treatment. Further Research is required to ascertain if improvements in CIPN symptoms are directly or indirectly associated with increase in blood flow, as well as to comprehend the role of physiotherapy, a nontoxic, non pharmacologic intervention, in CIPN amelioration.