Rehabilitation of Traumatic Lesion of the Brachial Plexus: A Case Report

Abstract

Aims: Most brachial plexus lesions are traumatic etiology, compromise the function of the upper limb and are often accompanied by neuropathic pain. In most cases, surgery is the best treatment; however, the recovery time is around two years, or it may not be a complete recovery. It is difficult to determine the location, extension and severity by physical examination, so electro physiology studies are required for diagnosis. Electromyography is important and must be performed carefully especially in muscles that are clinical weakness. Sample and Study Design: Report of a case. Description of Case: This is the case of a 54-year-old female patient, who was received in the emergency room, with a luxation of the right shoulder by a car accident. After three attempts, the dislocation was reduced. The patient was referred to rehabilitation where a probable lesion for right brachial plexus elongation was detected. The patient received 5 months of rehabilitation treatment with functional electrotherapy, sensory stimulation and use of antioxidant medications, neuromodulators and disodium monofostate cytidine. An electromyography was conducted before and after the rehabilitation treatment which suggested an improvement for patient recovery. Conclusion: This case is an example that some lesions of brachial plexus can be management without surgery.