Effectiveness of Electrical Stimulation and Passive Exercise in Incomplete Paraplegia: A Case Report

Adiba Hanim Fairuzza; Diah Rosyida Maulidina; Yeni Tri Nur Hayati

doi:10.24843/

Authors

Adiba Hanim Fairuzza Diploma in Physiotherapy Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia Author
Diah Rosyida Maulidina Diploma in Physiotherapy Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia Author
Yeni Tri Nur Hayati Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Lamongan, Lamongan, East Java, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/

Keywords:

Paraplegia, Spinal Cord Neoplasms, Electric Stimulation Therapy, Exercise Therapy, Muscle Spasticity

Abstract

Introduction: Paraplegia is paralysis of both lower extremities caused by spinal cord disorders, including compression by spinal meningioma, which disrupts motor, sensory, and functional abilities.
Objective: This case report aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combined electrical stimulation and passive exercise in improving sensory function and reducing spasticity in a patient with incomplete paraplegia following thoracic meningioma surgery.
Methods: A 41-year-old female with incomplete paraplegia Frankel B due to thoracic (T10–T11) meningioma underwent four physiotherapy sessions over four weeks, each lasting approximately 30 minutes. Assessments included sensory function (key point dermatome), spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale), muscle strength (Manual Muscle Testing), range of motion (goniometry), and functional independence (Spinal Cord Independence Measure III).
Results: Post-intervention evaluation showed improved sensory function and reduced spasticity, indicating a positive response to the combined intervention.
Conclusion: Electrical stimulation combined with passive exercise was effective in improving sensory function and reducing spasticity in incomplete paraplegia following thoracic meningioma surgery.