Effect of strengthening exercises in Hirayama disease: a case study

Abstract

Background/AimsThe effects of strengthening exercises in patients with Hirayama disease are not well documented. This case study examined the effect of strengthening exercises on hand functions in a patient with Hirayama disease.MethodsAn 18-year-old man with weakness in the right hand was given a hand-function strengthening programme consisting of 40 minutes of exercises, which were performed 5 days a week over an 8-week period. The patient used theraputty, a gel ball, finger dexterity board, gym kit and hand grip exerciser. The effects of the programme were evaluated using manual muscle testing, a hand-held dynamometer, pinchometer and the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test.ResultsThe patient's manual muscle testing grades improved following the strengthening programme. Results from the Dynamometer, pinchometer and Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test objectively exhibited increased muscle strength and improved hand functions.ConclusionsStrengthening exercises are effective in alleviating muscle weakness and improving hand functions associated with Hirayama disease.