scholarly journals A Survey of Practice Patterns for Rehabilitation Post Elbow Fracture

2012 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 429-439 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joy C MacDermid ◽  
Joshua I Vincent ◽  
Leah Kieffer ◽  
Ashley Kieffer ◽  
Jennifer Demaiter ◽  
...  

Background and Purpose:Elbow fractures amount to 4.3% of all the fractures. The elbow is prone to stiffness after injury and fractures can often lead to significant functional impairment. Rehabilitation is commonly used to restore range of motion (ROM) and function. Practice patterns in elbow fracture rehabilitation have not been defined. The purpose of this study was to describe current elbow fracture rehabilitation practices; and compare those to the existing evidence base.Methods:Hand therapists (n=315) from the USA (92%) and Canada (8%) completed a web-based survey on their practice patterns and beliefs related to the acute (0-6 weeks) and functional (6-12 weeks) phases of elbow fracture rehabilitation.Results:More than 99% of respondents agreed that fracture severity, co-morbidities, time since fracture, compliance with an exercise program, psychological factors, and occupational demands are important prognostic indicators for optimal function. Strong agreement was found with the use of patient education (95%) and active ROM (86%) in the acute stage while, home exercise programs (99%), active ROM (99%), stretching (97%), strengthening (97%), functional activities (ADLs and routine tasks) (97%), passive ROM (95%), and active assisted ROM (95%) were generally used in the functional stage. The most commonly used impairment measures were goniometry (99%), Jamar dynamometry (97%), and hand held dynamometry (97%). Agreement on the use of patient-reported outcome measures was very minimal (1.3%- 35.6%).Conclusions:Exercise, education, and functional activity have high consensus as components of elbo fracture rehabilitation. Future research should focus on defining the optimal dosage and type of exercise/activity, and establish core measures to monitor outcomes of these interventions.

2018 ◽  
Vol 3 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011418S0028
Author(s):  
Meghan Kelly ◽  
Ashlee MacDonald ◽  
Rachel Olson ◽  
Grace Weyand ◽  
Ruth Chimenti ◽  
...  

Category: Sports Introduction/Purpose: Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy (IAT) affects 5% of the general population and up to 20% of the athletic population. Despite trials of non-surgical management such as physical therapy and heels lifts, more than 50% of patients ultimately pursue surgery. One hypothesis regarding the development of IAT pain and stiffness is that ankle dorsiflexion and associated calcaneal impingement causes transverse compression of the tendon insertion, inducing metaplastic changes within the Achilles tendon, and bursa, contributing to inflammation. Thus the aim of the current study is to examine the effect of a home exercise program designed to minimize compression of insertional tissues for patients with IAT on patient reported outcomes (PRO) measures at 3 months and one year. Methods: Thirty-five patients with IAT were enrolled in the study from May 2014 until June 2015 as two separate cohorts (21 and 14 patients, respectively) of whom 26 completed the study (mean age: 56.7 + 10.1 years, BMI: 29.5 + 6.0 kg/m2, 58% women). One patient elected for surgery prior to completing the physical therapy protocol. Physical therapy exercises were progressive eccentric loading of the Achilles tendon and seated isometric plantar flexion that were performed 4 times a week for 3 months. The Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment – Achilles (VISA-A), the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and the SF-36 questionnaires were completed at baseline and at the completion of the 3-month physical therapy protocol. Six of the 14 patients in the second cohort returned for a 1 year follow up visit; four patients were lost to follow up and 4 had undergone surgical intervention prior to 1-year follow up. Results: Completion of the 3 month protocol resulted in statistically significant improvements in VISA-A, FAAM ADL and sports scores as well as multiple subcategories of the SF-36 (physical function, role limiting physical function, energy/vitality, social functioning and general pain). Twenty-two of the 26 patients (~85%) that completed the study had clinically significant, greater than MCID, improvements in their VISA-A and/or FAAM scores. In the second cohort, all six patients that returned for a one year follow up assessment maintained their improved VISA-A and FAAM scores observed at the end of the initial physical therapy protocol. Of the four patients that underwent surgical intervention prior to follow up, two did not demonstrate improvement in any of their outcomes following the initial study period. Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that a physical therapy home exercise program utilizing eccentric and isometric Achilles exercises may result in a greater improvement in functional outcomes compared to other exercise programs that do not progressively increase both ankle dorsiflexion and Achilles tendon loading. Furthermore, improvements in pain and function result in increased energy and social wellbeing. Finally, symptomatic improvement that occurs after 3 months is likely to persist for at least one year following initial treatment.


Healthcare ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 109
Author(s):  
Isabel Reed ◽  
Stacy Menz ◽  
Beth A. Smith

The objective of this case series was to examine the potential of the Otteroo as a tool to support physical therapy intervention in infants with or at risk for developmental disability. The Otteroo is a float with potential for use in aquatic therapy sessions or as part of a home exercise program. By tracking the amount of use and caregiver perception of the child’s response, we aimed to generate an understanding of the Otteroo’s potential as a family-based adjunct to physical therapy. Four children at risk of developmental delay participated in this study. The Otteroo was provided for four weeks, with recommendations for use. We used an activity log to track usage and collected survey data of caregiver perception of the child’s response. Activity logs showed that use ranged from 3–7 interactions and a total of 40–99.5 min (x¯ = 54.88, SD = 29.75). The survey responses varied as to whether caregivers perceived their children enjoyed the experience. Future research should focus on finding effective methods of encouraging Otteroo use if efficacy of an intervention is to be tested. This initial work provides a foundation for future efficacy research with the Otteroo in children with or at risk for developmental delay.


Author(s):  
Johanna Strempfl ◽  
Teresa Wutzl ◽  
Didem Ün ◽  
Susanne Greber-Platzer ◽  
Mohammad Keilani ◽  
...  

Summary Background This study determined to what extent the underpinning of physiotherapeutic interventions with the evidence-based motivational psychological concept of the self-determination theory (SDT) by Ryan and Deci can increase motivation and enjoyment of movement in obese adolescents. Methods In this study 12 obese adolescents aged 14–18 years were offered a targeted group-specific sports program including a home exercise program of 8 weeks. The group leaders were trained in the SDT and supported to integrate motivational aspects. A SDT-based questionnaire by Kohake and Lehnert was used to evaluate motivational interventions. Results In total, seven (58%) patients finished the study. In the before-after comparison there were little changes in motivation. Results showed that contrary to expectations the motivation of the obese adolescents to move and to participate in the study was generally high. In the study, more internalized forms of motivation dominated, the highest quality form of motivation. Conclusion Digital technologies could be a successful way to further increase motivation and compliance of our target group. This MotiMove study is a basis for future research programs and empower physiotherapists and movement experts to develop and implement training programs for obese adolescents and children.


2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (6) ◽  
pp. 59-66
Author(s):  
Mitisha Shah ◽  
Suraj Mathew

Sciatica is referred to radiculopathy involving any of the lower extremity, caused by either inflammation or compression of the nerve roots L1-S1. It can be diagnosed majorly through an appropriate history taking and physical examinations to not be misdiagnosed with other chronic low back pain conditions. A conservative management is preferred when in an acute stage of 6-8 weeks after which a surgical approached is advised. Although various studies has shown evidences that a prolonged conservative care is most fitting than a short term surgical approach (discectomy). The prevalence of sciatic symptoms ranging from 1.6% to 43%, maximum noted in the working population, has drawn attention for the need of an effective and early conservative care to downsize the symptoms causing discomfort and pain. Thus, the aim of the case report was to present with an early and effective conservative care with a blend of Maitland Mobilization, McKenzie exercises along with Neuro-Muscular Electrical Stimulation (Interferential Current) to minimize the discomfort thus easing and bolstering the individual in activities of daily living followed by an uncomplicated returning back to recreational activities. The patient was managed with a blend of Maitland Mobilization, McKenzie exercises and Interferential current for 7 days consecutively along with an individually tailored Home exercise program according the patient tolerance. Outcomes measures namely numerical pain rating scale, lower extremity functional scale and Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire were evaluated before and after the 7 day intervention period to assess prognosis in pain and pain related disability. Thus the changes in pre and post intervention results stated positive outcomes in reducing pain and improving the functional activity and participation in social and recreational ventures. Keywords: Sciatica, Maitland Mobilization, Mckenzie exercise, Interferential Therapy, radicular pain.


2008 ◽  
Vol 1 ◽  
pp. CCRep.S727 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sherry Tsao ◽  
Peter Pidcoe

Purpose To present the management of a patient with a cervical disc herniation and illustrate the efficacy of cervical traction as a main form of treatment for cervical disc herniation in conjunction with a home exercise program. Background A 71-year-old white female diagnosed with cervical disc herniation at the levels of C5-6 and C6-7 presented to physical therapy with neck pain radiating into the left upper extremity down to the 5th digit of the left hand. Treatment The patient reported to outpatient physical therapy for cervical disc herniation and radiculopathy. After initial evaluation she received intermittent cervical traction and was given a home exercise program consisting of cervical lateral flexion stretch, unilateral wall stretch for pectoralis muscles and to continue with her over the door cervical traction. Conclusion Cervical traction and a good home exercise program have been shown to reduce cervical disc herniation and its subsequent symptoms.


2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Martijn Dietvorst ◽  
Maarten H. Brzoskowski ◽  
Marieke van der Steen ◽  
Eugenie Delvaux ◽  
Rob P. A. Janssen ◽  
...  

Abstract Specific return to sport criteria for children and adolescents after anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction are unknown. The aim of this scoping review is to provide an overview of current tests regarding return to sport for children and adolescents. This scoping review was performed according to the PRISMA statement. A systematic search was performed on PubMed and EMBASE. The inclusion criteria were diagnostic and prognostic studies evaluating tests regarding return to sport after ACL injury and reconstruction in children/adolescents (age < 18 years). Twenty-six studies were included, of which 22 studies evaluated tests in the age category of 16 to 18 years. All studies evaluated tests after ACL reconstruction, no studies have been conducted in non-operative patients. Strength tests, movement quality and patient reported outcomes measures (PROMs) are investigated most frequently. Clearance for return to sport should be based on a test battery including strength tests, movement quality during sport-specific tasks and (paediatric) patient reported outcome measures. There are no recommendations on which specific tests regarding quantity and quality of movement should be used. Future research should aim at at developing and validating a test battery including movement quality and neuromotor control in a sport-specific context for both younger children and adolescents after both operative and non-operative treatment.


2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Michał Waszczykowski ◽  
Bożena Dziankowska-Bartkowiak ◽  
Michał Podgórski ◽  
Jarosław Fabiś ◽  
Arleta Waszczykowska

AbstractThe aim of this study was to estimate the long-term results of complex and supervised rehabilitation of the hands in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. Fifty-one patients were enrolled in this study: 27 patients (study group) were treated with a 4-week complex, supervised rehabilitation protocol. The control group of 24 patients was prescribed a home exercise program alone. Both groups were evaluated at baseline and after 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-months of follow-up with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DAHS) as the primary outcome, pain (VAS—visual analog scale), Cochin Hand Function Scale (CHFS), Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), Scleroderma-HAQ (SHAQ), range of motion (d-FTP—delta finger to palm, Kapandji finger opposition test) and hand grip and pinch as the secondary outcomes. Only the study group showed significant improvements in the DASH, VAS, CHFS and SHAQ after 1, 3 and 6 months of follow-up (P = 0.0001). Additionally, moderate correlations between the DASH, CHFS and SHAQ (R = 0.7203; R = 0.6788; P = 0.0001) were found. Complex, supervised rehabilitation improves hand and overall function in SSc patients up to 6 months after the treatment but not in the long term. The regular repetition of this rehabilitation program should be recommended every 3–6 months to maintain better hand and overall function.


2020 ◽  
Vol 79 (Suppl 1) ◽  
pp. 913.2-914
Author(s):  
T. Birinci ◽  
E. Kaya Mutlu ◽  
S. Altun

Background:Elbow fracture is treated either conservatively or surgically followed by a period of immobilization with casting or splinting. A splint used to immobilize upper limbs for many weeks results in changes in both the peripheral musculature and the central nervous system. It is well known that common complaints after upper limb fractures include weakness, pain, and stiffness; therefore, pain management is important in the early stages of the rehabilitation of upper limb fractures.Objectives:This pilot study aimed to investigate the efficacy of graded motor imaginary (GMI) on pain, range of motion (ROM), and function in patients with posttraumatic stiff elbow.Methods:Fourteen patients with posttraumatic stiff elbow (6 women, mean age: 45.42 ± 11.26 years, mean body mass index: 24.29 ± 3.38 kg\m2and mean duration of immobilization: 4.75 ± 1.03 weeks) were randomly allocated to either GMI or control groups. The GMI group received GMI treatment in addition to a structured exercise program, and the control group received a structured exercise program (two days per week for six weeks) (Figure 1). The assessments included pain at rest and during activity using the visual analog scale (VAS), elbow active ROM with a digital goniometer (Baseline Evaluation Instrument, Fabrication Enterprises, Inc., White Plains, NY), and upper extremity functional status using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH). The assessments were performed at baseline and after the 6-week intervention.Figure 1.Graded motor imagery performed with mirror boxResults:After the 6-week intervention, there was a significant increase in elbow flexion-extension ROM and supination-pronation ROM, and improvement in DASH score in both groups (p<0.05). However, improvement in VAS-rest and VAS-activity was significantly higher in the GMI group than the control group (p=0.03 and p=0.01, respectively).Conclusion:A conservative treatment program consisting of GMI treatment in addition to a structured exercise program applied twice a week for 6 weeks, has been found more effective in decreasing pain in the posttraumatic stiff elbow. It could be concluded that GMI is an effective treatment method for elbow fracture in patients with predominant elbow pain.References:[1] Harris JE, Hebert A. Utilization of motor imagery in upper limb rehabilitation: a systematic scoping review. Clin Rehab. 2015:29(11):1092-1107.[2] Opie GM, Evans A, Ridding MC, Semmler JG. Short-term immobilization influences use-dependent cortical plasticity and fine motor performance. Neuroscience. 2016:330:247-256.[3] Birinci T, Razak Ozdincler A, Altun S, Kural C. A structured exercise programme combined with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching or static stretching in posttraumatic stiffness of the elbow: a randomized controlled trial. Clin Rehab. 2019:33(2):241-252.Acknowledgments:The present work was supported by the Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit of Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa (Project No: TDK-2019-33997).Disclosure of Interests:None declared


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document