Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

David Relling

Keywords

Anterior Cruciate Ligament -- surgery; Knee Injuries -- rehabilitation; Knee Injuries -- therapy

Abstract

Background and Purpose. This paper describes the physical therapy management of a 17 -year-old male high school student, from two weeks postoperative to week 10 outpatient, after left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. An intra-articular patella bone-tendon-bone graft as well as a medial meniscus repair and notchplasty were completed using video arthroscopy. The patient presented with decreased range of motion and strength in the left knee and slightly decreased strength in the left hip.

Purpose, The purpose of this article is to describe the interventions used for this patient, the results from these interventions and to discuss current ACL treatment alternatives and their outcomes.

Description. The treatment of this patient involved range of motion, strengthening, stretching, joint mobilization, proprioceptive/balance training, patient education on the condition and prognosis.

Outcomes. Following PT intervention, the patient achieved full active range of motion, good to normal strength and an absence of edema and pain. The patient also returned to high school football at the end of the 10 week period with the permission of his attending physician.

Discussion. A physician based rehabilitation protocol was utilized to quickly advance the client through the rehabilitation process, The accelerated treatment protocol resulted in early return to sports with good knee stability and limited complications.

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