Effect of cranial base release and swallowing exercises in rehabilitation of post-operative total thyroidectomy patient: a case report

Thyroidectomy is a widely practiced surgical intervention with low mortality and morbidity rates; however, it can result in long-term complications impacting health and social well-being. Early physical rehabilitation programs have been shown to effectively address issues such as swallowing difficulties and motor function impairment in the neck and shoulders, thereby improving the overall quality of life for patients. This study aimed to assess the impact of cranial base release in conjunction with swallowing exercises on the post-surgery recovery of patients undergoing total thyroidectomy. A 29-year-old male patient presented with swelling on the left side of the neck, along with pain during neck movements, speech difficulties, and swallowing issues. The patient's neck range of motion, swallowing impairment score, and neck pain and disability scale were measured both before and after treatment. The patient underwent a six-week rehabilitation program consisting of cranial base release, swallowing exercises, and conventional physiotherapy sessions twice daily. The combined approach of cranial base release and swallowing exercises resulted in significant improvements in neck range of motion, swallowing impairment score, and neck pain and disability scale for patients following total thyroidectomy. This study highlights the beneficial effects of integrating cranial base release with swallowing exercises in the rehabilitation of post-operative total thyroidectomy patient, offering promising outcomes for their recovery.