Six Minutes Walking Test as Assessment in Determining Fitness to Work After Spinal Tuberculosis Post Stabilization and Comprehensive Rehabilitation: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Spinal tuberculosis is the most common extrapulmonary skeletal form of tuberculosis that can lead to neuromuscular deficit. Neuromuscular deficit may include paraplegia in both legs, inability to perform daily activities, and an increased risk of loss of occupation. Case Presentation: A 37-year-old male presented with a chief complaint of weakness in both legs and was unable to stand properly unassisted. This patient was diagnosed with spinal tuberculosis, confirmed by MRI. The rehabilitation program was designed for 6 months, focusing on the preservation of cardiorespiratory endurance and planning a return to work. Evaluation of physical fitness and working ability was carried out using the 6-Minute Walking Test (6MWT) and Work Ability Index (WAI) questionnaires to determine whether the patient was fit to work. Six months after the rehabilitation program, the patient showed moderate physical fitness and a WAI score of 37 indicating fitness to work. Conclusion: Complications of spinal tuberculosis can cause disability in daily activities and result in loss of occupation. In this case, after six months of a comprehensive rehabilitation program and evaluation of fitness capacity, the patient can return to work but still needs more support of his work ability than before the illness.