Body Structure Re-education and Functional Capacity in Two Patients with Neurological Sequelae

Abstract

SUMMARY The purpose of the present report was to evaluate the structures of the body scheme (segmental control, body balance and dynamic coordination) and the functional capacity of two patients with chronic neurological sequelae, before and after, the application of an interventionist program of psychomotor rehabilitation. For evaluation of the body scheme the Psychomotor Assessment of Picq and Vayer from the First Childhood and from the Second Childhood adapted by Linares was used. The functional capacity was measured through the adapted Rivermead Mobility Index. The program of intervention was carried out twice a week for 3 months, with each session taking nearly 40 minutes. Each session consisted of three sections, by means of the following protocol: partial application of Jacobson’s Progressive Relaxation technique (10 min); psychomotor rehabilitation exercises associated to kinesiotherapy (20 min); and partial reapplication of Jacobson’s Progressive Relaxation technique (10 min). After 8 and then 12 sessions, both the patients had gains of nearly 1 point in the average index of motor age of the body scheme and 2 points in functional capacity. A physiotherapeutic treatment alternative, allied to conventional kinesiotherapy is not only presented, but also alternatives of evaluation are revealed that could be the base of more effective therapies for an improvement in the quality of life of patients in the process of rehabilitation. DESCRIPTORS Motor Skills Disorders. Psychomotor Disorders. Motor Skill.