International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology
Volume 16, Issue 1s

Effect Of Pediatric Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (Piastm) In A Child With Joubert Syndrome: A Case Report From Europe

Kanu Kaushik 1, Maria M Bhabhrawala 2, Vesna Gabeloska 3

1Founder & Developer of PIASTM Technique, Paediatric Physiotherapist, Kinesio Prehab Institute, 001- LAKVIN VALLEY RESIDENCY, Hemmigepura Ward 198, Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560098
2 Consultant Physiotherapist, Kinesio Prehab Institute 001- LAKVIN VALLEY RESIDENCY, Hemmigepura Ward 198, Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560098
3Physical Therapist, Kinesio Prehab Institute 001- LAKVIN VALLEY RESIDENCY, Hemmigepura Ward 198, Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560098


ABSTRACT

Background: Joubert syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by hypotonia, oculomotor abnormalities, developmental delay, and impaired motor control. Children with Joubert syndrome often demonstrate significant postural instability, altered tone regulation and delayed motor milestones. Published evidence examining adjunctive physiotherapeutic interventions targeting fascial and proprioceptive systems in this population remains sparse. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 2-year-5-month-old female diagnosed with Joubert syndrome due to a CPLANE1 gene mutation, presenting with global developmental delay, generalized hypotonia, joint stiff, oculomotor dysfunction, and impaired postural control. The child underwent Paediatric Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (PIASTM) as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation approach, delivered over four consecutive days. Pre- and post-intervention visual and clinical observations were compared. Results: Following PIASTM intervention, improvements were observed in ankle–foot alignment, heel contact during stance, symmetry of lower-limb loading, pelvic stability, trunk alignment, sitting balance and standing tolerance. These changes suggested improved tone regulation, enhanced proprioceptive input, and better motor organization. Conclusion: This case highlights the potential role of PIASTM as an adjunctive physiotherapy intervention to improve postural alignment and functional motor control in children with Joubert syndrome. Further controlled studies are warranted to establish efficacy and long-term outcomes..

Keywords: Joubert syndrome; pediatric physiotherapy; PIASTM; hypotonia; postural control; neurodevelopmental disorders

How to cite this article: Biswas G, Jasline M; Assess The Knowledge Regarding The Risk Factors And Warning Signs Of Stroke Among Nursing Students In Selected Nursing Colleges Of West Bengal...Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(1s): 540-547; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16. 548-553