Brain Tumor Surgery & Physical Therapy

Most of us certainly don’t prefer to lose our mental peace. But have you ever wondered — what if the mind is constantly under stress? What if there are persistent headaches, weakness, and numbness in the limbs — a silent thief slowly stealing all the capabilities once seamlessly coordinated by the brain?

All this can be a silent knock of an alarming condition—termed as brain tumor.

While a brain tumor can disturb the normal functioning of the brain it is usually an abnormal growth or mass of cells in or around your brain. 

Brain tumor can be malignant (a cancerous growth that grows quickly & can also spread to the other parts of the body) or benign (this form of tumor doesn’t spread and grows slowly; it can cause problems by pressing on the brain tissues located in its affinity) and can affect children or adults.

Together spinal tumors and brain tumors are called as central nervous system (CNS) tumors. Some tumors grow quickly, while others grow slowly.

Whether malignant or benign, a brain tumour can affect the body’s normal functioning. From physical processes to memory and behaviour, it can interfere with all aspects of daily life.

THE CAUSES OF BRAIN TUMOR

Researchers suggest that brain tumors develop when certain genes on the chromosomes of a cell are damaged and no longer function properly and there are changes in their DNA.

 . In some cases, a person may be born with changes in one or more of these genes.

. Environmental factors , such as exposure to large amounts of radiations from X rays or   exposure to any pervious cancer treatment .

. There are a few rare, inherited genetic syndromes that are associated with brain tumors, including: Neurofibromatosis type 1 , Neurofibromatosis type 2, Turcot syndrome, Gorlin syndrome

. Only about 5% to 10% of people with brain tumors have a family history of brain tumor.

. TBI: Though being studied, sometimes, a Traumatic Brain Injury can also be one of the reasons behind development of brain cancer.

. Sometimes when an individual gets affected by infections caused by Epstein-Barr Virus, also have higher chances of developing brain tumors

SYMPTOMS OF BRAIN TUMOR

The manifestation of this condition is widely dependent upon it’s size and location. The way this condition shows up in the body is dependent upon how big the tumor is and what is the location of the tumor. Some symptoms are: 

• Headache that may be more severe in the morning and may wake up the affected individual at night.

• Seizures

• Difficulty thinking, speaking or understanding languages.

• Weakness or paralysis in one part or one side of the body.

• Balance and coordination problems and dizziness.

• Vision issues accompanied with hearing issues.

• Nausea and vomiting.

• Confusion and disorientation.

• Facial numbness

DIAGNOSIS

• Physical Examination: This is done by reviewing the patient’s symptoms, past and current health conditions, current medications, surgeries, and medical treatments along with family medical history.
  

• Neurological Examination: It involves looking for changes in balance and coordination, mental status, hearing, vision, and body reflexes.
  

• TESTS: These include brain MRI and CT scan, biopsy, and spinal tap.

CRITICAL ROLE OF PHYSICAL THERAPY POST BRAIN TUMOR SURGERY

The diagnosis of brain tumor in life is certainly a devastating condition. But physical therapy at ABTP (India’s leading physiotherapy centre) becomes a guide, a coach and a compass during this storm. 

It plays a crucial role in the recovery of individuals who have undergone brain tumor surgery, focusing on restoring physical function, improving mobility, and enhancing overall quality of life. It helps address motor impairments, balance issues, and cognitive deficits that may result from surgery or the tumor itself.

• Motor Function: Physiotherapy aims to improve muscle strength, range of motion, coordination which may be affected by the surgery or tumor location.

• Balance & Gait Training: It helps patients to regain balance and learn proper walking techniques, addressing their balance impairments that may develop after surgery.

  
  

  

  
  

• Functional Training: Therapist work with patient to improve their ability to perform daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, cooking, while also promoting independence.

  
  

  

  
  

• Cognitive Rehabilitation:

  Physiotherapy may incorporate cognitive exercises and strategies to improve memory, attention, and other cognitive skills.

• Pain & Management:

  A physiotherapist can help manage the pain through techniques like stretching, massage, and movement facilitation.

Hence, it can be said that the journey of a patient with brain tumor goes beyond the operating room. It unfolds step-by-step with guided physical therapy treatment protocols at ABTP. The advanced technology backed holistic rehabilitation measures taken up at ABTP, not only help the patient in regaining the balance or strength but also cultivates hopes to lead an independent and confident life. Because at ABTP, we don’t just present you a gift of movement but we also help you reimagine and rebuild a qualitative life.