Is Whole-Body Cryostimulation Useful in Modulating Spasticity in Adults with Cerebral Palsy? A Case Study.

Background

This case study investigates the effect of a five-session whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) cycle on a 55-year-old female patient with cerebral palsy (CP) and lower limb spasticity (LLS) with a typical diplegic gait pattern. CP is a common physical disability characterized by motor impairments, including spasticity, which significantly impacts mobility and quality of life. The current treatments for spasticity often have limited efficacy and considerable side effects, making alternative therapies like WBC an area of interest.

Methods

The patient underwent a 10-day inpatient rehabilitation program integrated with five WBC sessions at -110 °C for 2 min. The treatment effects were assessed immediately before and after the five WBC sessions using the Ashworth Scale, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, H-reflex test, and gait analysis. Psychosocial outcomes were measured with the SF-36, WHO-5, PSQI, ESS, and BDI questionnaires.

Results

Immediately after the WBC cycle, gait analysis showed increased walking speed (0.48 to 0.61 m/s left; 0.49 to 0.57 m/s right) and step length (0.30 to 0.38 m left; 0.30 to 0.35 m right). The H/M ratio in the H-reflex test improved, indicating a better neuromuscular efficiency. Psychosocial assessments revealed a 42.5% reduction in pain and a 24% improvement in overall quality of life and well-being. Discussion and

Conclusions

The objective improvements in gait parameters and neuromuscular modulation, along with the subjectively reported enhancements in functional abilities, highlight the potential of WBC as a valuable addition to rehabilitation strategies for this population. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and assess long-term outcomes.