A specialized exercise programme for a patient suffering from eosinophilic meningitis

Abstract

Aims: The aim of this study was to determine whether a specialised exercise program including vibration training, resistance exercise and stretching, improved health, fitness and quality of life in a patient suffering from chronic pain due to skin hypersensitivity, as well as from insomnia, irritability and depression, all associated with eosinophilic meningitis, with pain exacerbated during exercise.

Methodology: The twenty-thirty-minute program incorporated stretching, lower-body exercises performed on a vibration platform and upper-body resistance exercises, which were performed 3 times a week within an air-conditioned environment. The patient wore a tight-fitting long-sleeve shirt to minimise skin pain. Pre and post assessments included body mass index, girths, cholesterol, resting heart rate and blood pressure, mobility, strength, endurance and flexibility.

Results: The patient completed all 36 exercise sessions, resulting in an average 14% (2-25%) improvement in health, 42% (19-103%) improvement in functional fitness, and improved quality of life measures as stated by the patient. Despite experiencing chest skin pain during vibration training, the combination of the air-conditioned environment as well as the short duration of the sessions, the use of a long-sleeved shirt and the proximity of the patient’s house to the clinic, helped him control his pain.

Conclusions: The set program with pain-control measures was a successful exercise combination for the patient who was previously unable to undertake regular exercise due to pain associated with skin hypersensitivity from meningitis.