The effectiveness of intensive physical therapy in improving balance and preventing falls after deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation from the perspective of neurologists and surgeons

Abstract

       This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of intensive physiotherapy in improving balance and preventing falls in patients with gait disturbances following deep brain stimulation (DBS) implantation, from the perspective of neurologists and surgeons. The study employed a descriptive approach, deemed most appropriate. The sample consisted of 115 physicians and surgeons. A five-question and a 25-question questionnaire were administered. The results showed that the overall mean score for the effectiveness of intensive physiotherapy was 4.45, indicating "strong agreement." Physicians generally agreed that using a single device was insufficient to improve balance (mean 2.64) and supported a "golden window" approach of intervention within two days (4.35). Furthermore, the results indicated that the shortage of qualified personnel (mean 4.62) was the greatest obstacle. The study recommends incorporating intensive physiotherapy as an integral part of DBS implantation, establishing standardized protocols for collaboration between surgeons and therapists, and training specialists in the physiology of DBS.