Physiotherapy Rehabilitation in a Pediatric Outpatient with Diffuse Axonal Injury Using the WHO PIR Guideline: A Case Report
- Publicado
- Servidor
- Preprints.org
- DOI
- 10.20944/preprints202510.0827.v1
Background: Diffuse axonal injury (DAI) in children remains one of the most challenging outcomes of traumatic brain injury, characterized by widespread axonal disruption leading to complex motor, cognitive, and behavioral impairments. The pediatric brain, though endowed with remarkable plasticity, is particularly vulnerable to shearing injuries that compromise developmental milestones and participation. Rehabilitation, therefore, becomes the bridge between survival and meaningful recovery. This case report illustrates the structured application of the World Health Organization’s Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation (PIR) in the physiotherapy management of a pediatric outpatient with DAI, demonstrating the clinical and functional impact of a globally guided, play-based approach. Case Presentation: A 12-year-old boy presented to the outpatient physiotherapy unit with mild right-sided hemiparesis and gait asymmetry following a fall from a one-story building, diagnosed as diffuse axonal injury (Adams Grade III). The patient exhibited impaired coordination, poor gait toe-off, and limited endurance but intact cognitive and communication abilities. Rehabilitation goals were framed within the WHO PIR and ICF-CY domains, emphasizing motor recovery, activity participation, and environmental support. Intervention and Outcomes: Rehabilitation spanned seven months, combining weekly in-clinic physiotherapy with structured home programs guided by the caregiver. Therapy progressed from postural control and selective motor facilitation to interactive play-based activities such as obstacle courses, hopscotch, and task-oriented games designed to retrain balance, coordination, and gait mechanics. Play served not just as motivation but as a therapeutic medium linking movement, cognition, and social engagement. By week 28, the child regained independent ambulation, improved fine motor precision, and full reintegration into school and peer play. These gains reflected the adaptability and effectiveness of the WHO PIR framework in optimizing pediatric neuro-recovery within a resource-limited outpatient setting. Conclusions: This case reaffirms that physiotherapy, when guided by structured frameworks like the WHO PIR, transcends symptom relief to restore participation, confidence, and quality of life. The integration of play within a goal-oriented rehabilitation plan highlights the power of child-centered therapy to transform neuro-recovery into a holistic journey restoring not only function but the essence of childhood itself.