How PhysioFunction can help if you have Posterior Fossa Syndrome

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.

Posterior Fossa Syndrome symptoms commonly include difficulties with:

• Speech and communication
• Motor control, movement and balance
• Emotional control
• Cognition and understanding

Are you looking for a qualified Neuro physiotherapist to help with your Posterior Fossa rehabilitation? It's important to start physiotherapy as soon as possible to maximise the benefits. Contact us today.