Massage therapy treatment and outcomes in a patient with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease: A case report

Abstract

Background: Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, a progressive hereditary peripheral neuropathy, leads to muscle weakness, wasting, and sensory and motor nerve deprivation. The two main types of CMT are CMT1 (demyelinating) and CMT2 (axonal). Initial findings include foot deformities and sensory changes with progression to altered gait, diminished reflexes, and muscle wasting and weakness. Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms with physiotherapy, orthotics, splints, braces, fatigue and pain management and possible surgical intervention. Research is limited on the effects of massage or other complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) on CMT.

Objective: To determine whether massage therapy would aid in reducing bilateral foot and lumbar pain and increasing lumbar range of motion (ROM) in a CMT patient.

Method: A 44-year-old male with CMT presented with lumbar and bilateral foot pain, and foot deformities. Treatment aims were to decrease lumbar and foot pain and increase lumbar ROM. A tape measure was used to measure lumbar flexion and extension pre- and post-treatment. The Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) was used to evaluate foot and lumbar pain intensity before and after each treatment. Rhythmical superficial touch, myofascial release, and petrissage techniques were applied to the back, legs, and neck. A massage therapy student provided treatments over seven weeks.

Results: Bilateral foot and lumbar pain decreased and lumbar flexion and extension increased post-treatment, and overall. All other lumbar movements increased overall.

Conclusion: Massage therapy may positively affect pain intensity and ROM associated with CMT. Future studies linking massage therapy and CMT are needed.

Keywords: Charcot-Marie-Tooth; Massage therapy; Peripheral neuropathy.