JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background and Purpose: While several reports have described the diagnosis and treatment of patients with COVID-19 associated Guillian-Barré Syndrome (GBS), there is a paucity of literature describing the occupational and physical therapy strategies used in the long-term acute care hospital (LTACH) setting to rehabilitate these patients. Case Description: A 61 year-old male was admitted to an LTACH for the rehabilitation of GBS following COVID-19 infection and intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. Intervention: Rehabilitation in the LTACH setting uses a variety of skilled treatment interventions to meet patient driven goals and maximize their function to the highest level possible in preparation of their discharge to a subacute or homecare setting. In this case, this was accomplished through individual occupational and physical therapy sessions, occupational and physical therapy co-treatment sessions, and targeted group therapy sessions focused on leg, arm, and fine motor coordination exercises. Outcomes: With the occupational and physical therapy standard of care, the patient’s improvement was demonstrated by several outcome measures including manual muscle testing, range-of-motion, grip-strength, and the Activity Measure for Post-Acute Care. The patient was successfully rehabilitated and returned to the community after presenting with COVID-19 associated GBS. Discussion: This report highlights the complex rehabilitation needs patients require to regain independence after diagnosis of COVID-19 associated GBS.