Affiliations: [a] Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Gülhane Military Medical Academy, Turkish Armed Forces Rehabilitation Center, Ankara, Turkey | [b] Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Division of Rheumatology, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is a common problem in
the world resulting with severe disability. Etiological data is different in
studies because of the study period, patient population, economic status,
and workplace safety policies of the different countries. OBJECTIVE: To define epidemiological and etiological data of our
patients with peripheral nerve injury and to identify factors influencing
efficacy of rehabilitation methods and recovery. METHODS: Patients were compared by means of electromyography and
muscle strength changes. Influence of orthotics use, disease interval and
type of physical therapy (electrical stimulation or EMG biofeedback) was
assessed. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between groups. But we
found weak correlation between EMG and motor changes. There was no
difference in EMG and motor score changes in terms of orthotics use and type
of physical therapy. When the patients were grouped according to EMG
changes, we found significant difference by disease interval. Disease
interval was longest in patients with no change in EMG. When the patients
were grouped according to motor score changes, there was no significant
difference by disease interval. CONCLUSION: Etiology of the patients didn't affect long term
results in peripheral nerve injury. The results of this study might help
rehabilitation teams to guide their follow-up.
