Introduction: Diabetic amyotrophy, also known as diabetic Lumbosacral
Radiculoplexus Neuropathy, is a rare and disabling neurological
complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by acute onset pain,
progressive proximal lower limb weakness, and functional decline. Although
medical management is well described, literature highlighting the role of
structured physiotherapy rehabilitation remains limited. This case report aims
to describe the effectiveness of a phase-wise physiotherapy intervention in
improving functional outcomes in a patient with diabetic amyotrophy.
Methodology: A 56-year-old male with a 12-year history of type 2
diabetes mellitus presented with severe unilateral thigh pain, muscle wasting,
and difficulty in ambulation. Clinical examination, nerve conduction studies,
and electromyography confirmed the diagnosis of diabetic amyotrophy. The
patient underwent an 8-week individualized physiotherapy rehabilitation program
focusing on pain management, muscle activation, progressive strengthening,
balance training, gait retraining, and functional task-oriented exercises. Outcome
measures included pain intensity (VAS), muscle strength (Medical Research
Council scale), and functional performance assessed using the Lower Extremity
Functional Scale (LEFS).
Results: Following the physiotherapy intervention,
significant improvements were observed across all outcome measures. Pain
intensity reduced from 8/10 to 2/10 on the VAS. Muscle strength of the affected
hip flexors and knee extensors improved from grade 2/5 to 4/5 on the MRC scale.
Functional ability showed marked improvement, with LEFS scores increasing from
18/80 at baseline to 62/80 post-intervention. The patient progressed from
assisted ambulation with a walker to independent walking without support.
Discussion: The findings of this case highlight the critical
role of early and structured physiotherapy rehabilitation in managing diabetic
amyotrophy. Pain modulation facilitated early active participation, while
progressive strengthening and functional training addressed neuromuscular
deficits and mobility limitations. This case supports existing evidence that
individualized physiotherapy intervention can significantly enhance recovery,
reduce disability, and improve quality of life in patients with this rare
diabetic neuropathy.
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