Assessment tools and physiotherapeutic intervention strategies in children with the neurodegenerative condition Ataxia-Telangiectasia: a Scoping Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71399/x5rhe678Keywords:
Ataxia Telangiectasia, Child, Physical Therapy, RehabilitationAbstract
This study aimed to perform a scoping review on the neurodegenerative condition in children with Ataxia-Telangiectasia, focusing on the characteristics of the samples, the physiotherapeutic intervention strategies applied, as well as the assessment instruments used. A literature search was carried out in the Web of Science, PubMed and EBSCO databases using the following keyword combinations: ("Ataxia telangiectasia") AND ("child*") AND ("physical therapy" OR "rehabilitation"). A total of 45 articles were initially identified, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. Among these, 6 articles reported the application of intervention programs, 4 addressed only assessment tools, and 1 was a narrative study with multidisciplinary recommendations. It was concluded that most studies included children with classic Ataxia-Telangiectasia, aged between 9 and 14 years, with a predominance of male participants. Among the assessment tools are the SARA, BARS scales, and objective movement assessment instruments, such as electromyography and inertial sensors. Regarding intervention strategies, the positive role of physiotherapy was emphasized, particularly through programs focused on postural control, global mobility, and respiratory training. It is essential to develop more specific and adapted strategies, focusing on postural control, recruitment of trunk stabilizing muscles and muscle fatigue.
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