How PhysioFunction can help with Posterior Fossa Syndrome (PFS)

The PhysioFunction team achieve amazing results with clients recovering from posterior fossa tumour resection. Some examples of the therapy you may receive include:

What is Posterior Fossa Syndrome (PFS)

Posterior Fossa Syndrome (PFS) is a common complication of posterior fossa tumour resection, particularly medulloblastoma, the most prevalent brain tumour in childhood. PFS, which is also known as cerebellar mutism, has been reported to affect between 8 and 39% of children after posterior fossa surgery, and affects the structures of the brain located in the posterior fossa:

• Cerebellum – a critical area of the brain affecting balance and posture, responsible for controlling motor (muscle) activity in response to changes in sensory information from the body.
• Pons – located in the brainstem above the medulla, the pons is responsible for controlling your body’s alertness when you wake and managing pain signals sent from the body to the brain. It is also a major relay point between the body and brain for many autonomic processes.
• Medulla – located in the brainstem the medulla is responsible for many automatic processes, including breathing, circulation, cardiac functions, the sleep-wake cycle and automatic functions, such as such as sneezing, swallowing and coughing.

Symptoms of PFS commonly include difficulties with:

• Speech and communication

• Motor control, movement and balance

• Emotional control

• Cognition and understanding

Rehabilitation Treatment for Posterior Fossa Syndrome (PFS)

Many of the symptoms of PFS improve with time but recovery is often incomplete, and patients are left with some degree of limitation, which in some cases can impact their ability to live independently.

Physiotherapy - Physiotherapy treatment help manage the symptoms of PFS. The common aims of rehabilitation can be:

• Improvement of balance, coordination and control of movement.
• Strengthening muscles of the upper body, lower body and core.
• Managing any muscle stiffness or tightness
• Re-educating functional movements such as dressing, standing, walking, jumping and running

Occupational Therapy – An OT will provide assistance with activities of daily living, help make adaptations and provide equipment for home and mobility. They will also support in returning to school, work and leisure activities.

Speech and Language Therapy - A SLP can provide support, treatment and advice in communication, speech and swallowing.

Medical Management – Monitors, manages and prescribes medication when appropriate to address symptoms.

Psychologists, Dieticians and experts from other professions may also be involved.