Early Physiotherapy on The Outcome of Post-Operative Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of The Head and Neck – A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Purpose – To study the effect of early physiotherapy on the outcome of post-operative patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Methodology- This study was a non-randomized controlled trial comprising two groups one receiving an early physiotherapy intervention and the other conventional commencement of physiotherapy among post-operative patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Pain intensity, quality of life, and mouth opening were assessed as outcome measures. Results – There was a significant improvement in all the outcomes from a baseline homogeneity in both the groups however the improvement was gained faster in the early intervention group and sustained for a long period which reflected in a significant difference in improvement in the follow-up analysis. Conclusion - this study recommends the early administration of physiotherapy to the subjects suffering from squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck after surgery.