A structured rehabilitation program for functional recovery in Guillain–Barré syndrome: a case report

Introduction: Guillain–Barré syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by progressive generalized muscle weakness commonly arising from proximal leg muscles and developing in an ascending pattern toward the upper limb, facial muscles, and cranial nerves. Case report: A 40-year-old Emirati female patient diagnosed with Guillain–Barré syndrome had paralysis of her upper and lower limbs, with certain muscle groups exhibiting tightness. On the basis of the patient’s examination findings and goals, the rehabilitation program focused on inhibiting tightness, activating weak muscles, improving range of motion and proprioception, and developing trunk control for advanced functional training. Discussion: The results of the structured program revealed the effectiveness of an intensive intervention in improving the patient’s physical abilities over 4 months. Our program was based on a study that reported that extensive training showed significant improvement in patient functional outcome. Conclusion: The findings of our study suggest that a structured rehabilitation program consisting of progressive resistance training and functional training could be very effective in improving physical function among Guillain–Barré syndrome patients.