Rehabilitation Program Using Sensory Integration Therapy for Dropped Head Syndrome: A Case Report

Dropped head syndrome (DHS) is characterized by a correctable cervical kyphotic deformity due to weakened cervical paraspinal muscles. Currently, there is no established treatment for the condition. Sensory integration pertains to the processing, integrating, and organizing of sensory information from both the body and the environment. Sensory integration therapy can be incorporated into a rehabilitation program for individuals displaying deficits in the sensory integration process and/or balance. The rehabilitation program had a sensory integration component, including exposure to sensory stimulation for the feet and eyes, and a physical component, involving cervical extensor muscle strengthening exercises incorporating the cervical paraspinal muscle exercises. A 68-year-old man was referred to our institution with DHS. His condition was prominent during standing and walking. A 12-week rehabilitation program was devised, which required four weeks of hospitalization, an outpatient period, and hospitalization for rehabilitation. The rehabilitation program, which included both sensory integration and muscle strengthening, was undertaken by a prior patient with idiopathic DHS. This program attenuated muscle weakness of the cervical extensor muscles, such that the patient was able to look at the ceiling in a sitting posture. In this case of DHS, the rehabilitation program was useful and suggested DHS can be a disorder of deficits in sensory integration and improves when these are addressed.