Date of Award

2017

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Renee Mabey

Keywords

Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee -- rehabilitation; Case Reports

Abstract

Background & Purpose Total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) are the most commonly performed elective surgery in the United States. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common diagnosis treated with a TKA, which aims to restore an individual's functional ability by improving joint biomechanics and decreasing pain. The purpose of this case report is to describe the progression of physical therapy rehabilitation for a patient status post total knee arthroplasty.

Case Description The patient was a 64 year old male who underwent a TKA surgery to resolve the complications from severe osteoarthritis (OA) of his left knee. He presented to physical therapy with deficits in range of motion, strength, and functional activities.

Outcomes The patient responded well to the physical therapy interventions, which included manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and vasopneumatic treatment. He returned to his prior level of function and resumed independent exercise at the wellness center.

Discussion The patient underwent rehabilitation following his TKA and achieved favorable outcomes. His results align with other research studies conducted for similar cases. Intervention procedures that can be utilized for TKA rehabilitation in the future include preoperative exercise and functional squatting symmetry.

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