Modern Medical Rehabilitation Methods for Patients with Peripheral Nerve and Brachial Plexus Injuries (Review).

Abstract

Peripheral nerve and brachial plexus injuries represent one of the most serious medical challenges due to the high frequency of disabling consequences. Medical rehabilitation for such injuries is critically important as it ensures the most complete functional recovery for patients. The aim of this review is to summarize and interpret the data on medical rehabilitation methods, as well as to assess the effectiveness of rehabilitation strategies and techniques for restoring upper limb functions after peripheral nerve and brachial plexus injuries. Information is provided on the theoretical foundations of functional recovery following peripheral nerve and nerve plexus injuries, as well as on factors that may hinder the full functional recovery of patients. There are discussed rehabilitation strategies and methods aimed at accelerating nerve fiber regeneration, preventing complications, correcting cortical plasticity, restoring patients' functional capabilities, and improving their quality of life. Special attention is given to pain management, electrical stimulation, sensory deficit correction, and physical therapy in the postoperative period. Rehabilitation modalities and the medical rehabilitation duration are highly individualized and depend on numerous factors that determine the rehabilitation interventions direction. However, a significant number of rehabilitation methods have a low evidence base: many scientific studies are based on small samples, do not consider the heterogeneous nature of injuries, and do not evaluate longterm outcomes. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of both individual rehabilitation techniques and comprehensive rehabilitation programs that facilitate the recovery of motor activity in patients with peripheral nerve and brachial plexus injuries.