Effectiveness and Safety of Physical therapy Intervention in Adult Dermatomyositis: A Case Report and Review

Background: The evidence for positive effects of exercise is insufficient in dermatomyositis. This article aims to outline the effects of physical exercise with regard to structure (disease activity, inflammation, metabolic milieu and muscle structure) as well as clinical outcome in terms of impairment, activity limitation, participation restriction according to the ICF; and QOL in an adult patient with dermatomyositis.

Case description: A 47 year old female diagnosed with definite DM since last 10 months was referred by a Rheumatologist for Physical therapy intervention.

Intervention: 12 weeks (three days a week) of Physiotherapy (moderate intensity, individualized, closely monitored) along with a structured home exercise program (low intensity, 5-6 days a week).

Outcome measures: Assessment of muscular pain, muscle strength, endurance, balance, functional evaluation, and QOL along with serological investigations.

Results: Effectiveness: Patient continued to show meaningful and clinically significant improvement on standardized outcome measures:

A major clinical response (total improvement score of 77) on IMAC S Core Set measures; Improvement across all domains of ICF viz. muscle strength, endurance; movement coordination; balance, aerobic endurance, confidence and performance in activities of daily living; participation in social activities; Probable disease-modifying effect: Progressively tapering dose of prescribed corticosteroids medication and improvement in disease-specific biochemical markers; Patient reported measures: Reduction in muscular pain, shortness of breath & fatigue; and improvement in Health-related QOL.

Conclusion: Moderate intensity of Physiotherapy intervention along with home exercise program is effective and safe in improving functional outcomes for dermatomyositis in a stable disease activity state. This case report enhances our understanding of the effects of physical exercise and may improve treatment and outcome in patients with dermatomyositis.

Author(s): Isha S. Akulwar

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