World Journal of
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences

ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS ASSOCIATED NEUROCOGNITIVE DISORDER - A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Jasper Rebecca, Sandhya Ramesh, Spoorthi Desai, Sumangala Poojari and *Sudheera Kunduru

ABSTRACT

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection results in neurocognitive dysfunction of varying degrees, ranging from mild impairment to dementia, together termed HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder (HAND). Combined antiretroviral treatment led to marked decrease in the number of patients with more severe manifestations of HAND, yet with poor outcomes on formal neurocognitive tests. An electronic database search generated 63 results out of which 4 studies were included in this review based on the selection criteria. Patients with HAND often experience a myriad of physical challenges that hinder their day-to-day activities and independence. Physiotherapists are uniquely positioned to address the physical and functional aspects of HAND, improving their quality of life. As research and clinical practice continue to evolve, physiotherapy will remain a valuable tool in the arsenal against HAND, helping patients live more fulfilling and independent lives. Implementation of physical activity regimen yielded positive results on neurocognitive performance and may play a role in HIV standard of care treatment as a prophylaxis for HAND.

[Full Text Article]   [Download Certificate]