The role of targeted physiotherapy in the group of patients diagnosed with epilepsy

Introduction: Epilepsy is a chronic disease characterised by a predisposition to the occurrence of recurrent and unprovoked seizures. Due to the unpredictability of the disease (due to the possibility of seizures occurring at any time), the quality of life of these patients is drastically reduced. Stigmatisation of patients with epilepsy is common all over the world and concerns not only developing countries, but also those already highly developed. Patients with epilepsy show less activity in many areas of everyday life, including physical activity (they exercise less than the general public), and also have a lower level of mobility. This may be a significant factor contributing to the observation of balance disorders this group (from discrete, unnoticeable by them and the environment, to clinically manifesting instability of posture). So far, however, this has not been possible to clearly document, and to date, the standards for rehabilitation in this group of patients have not been established. However, it is widely known that balance disorders, apart from epileptic seizures, decrease quality of life.In the control of postural disorders, the co-ordination of the visual, somatosensory and vestibular systems is necessary. The cortical representation of the visual and sensory systems can be analysed during electroencephalographic recording. Additionally, the Biodex Balance SD stabilometric platform is an objective tool used to confirm imbalances. The application of this diagnostic device allows to quickly determine the exact type of imbalance that can subsequently undergo targeted physiotherapy. Research objective: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of targeted physiotherapy in a group of patients diagnosed with epilepsy of unknown etiology and balance disorders. Materials and methods: Patients diagnosed with generalised epilepsy of unknown etiology took part in the study. They were treated at the neurology ward or clinic of John Paul II Specialist Hospital in Krakow. The patients were examined 3 times at monthly intervals using the following methods: - EEG testing, - SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, - Biodex SD stabilometric platform. In addition, between the 2nd and 3rd months of the study, the patients underwent physiotherapy for balance disorders (3 times a week for 1 month, each session lasting 30 minutes). Results: In 10 patients who were subjected to selective physiotherapy using the Biodex SD stabilometric platform, objective improvement in balance stability was noted. All patients also reported oral improvement in the sense of postural stability after the completion of the rehabilitative treatment. Conclusions: Targeted physiotherapy in a group of patients with diagnosed epilepsy of undetermined etiology, and accompanying balance disorders has a positive impact on their daily functioning.