Effect of functional stabilization training on balance and motor patterns in a patient with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease

Balance and motor disturbances are significant symptoms commonly associated with hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy (HMSN), also known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Although CMT is a progressive neurological disease, comprehensive physiotherapeutic strategies may improve balance and motor patterns, and, therefore, enhance the quality of life (ADL). A 55-year-old HMSN patient with confirmed CMT X phenotype was evaluated for locomotor stability on a stabilometric platform. Stability tests were repeated after a 3-week, intensive in-patient rehabilitation program and the results were compared. Improvements in "modified clinical testing of sensory interaction on balance", "limits of stability" and "forward lunge" tests were observed. Subjectively, the patient noted a significant improvement in both balance and gait.