Date of Award

2016

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Gary Schindler

Keywords

Stroke -- therapy; Treatment Outcome; Case Reports

Abstract

Background: Cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) are one of the leading disabilities in America resulting in mild to severe functional limitations. These functional limitations can be addressed in physical therapy (PT).

Purpose: The purpose of this case report is to review background, treatments, physical therapy interventions and outcomes of a patient with a sub-acute stroke, treated in an inpatient setting.

Case Description: The patient was a 70 year old male with a severe ischemic CVA following surgery to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm. The patient was transferred to a nursing home to recover and returned to the hospital 5 months later with hypotension and residual weakness of lower left extremity. There he was treated by inpatient PT.

Interventions: The patient was treated 2x/day for 5 days in 45 minute sessions. Treatment consisted of gait training, therapeutic exercise, and neuromuscular re-education.

Outcomes: Over the short course of treatment, the patient significantly improved in functional mobility, transfers, ambulation, and bed mobility. He was accepted into the Acute Rehab Unit for an extended rehab stay where he was able to receive more intensive PT, and progress even further towards his goal of returning home.

Discussion: The patient responded well to treatment, however additional interventions could be utilized in the future to aid in greater improvements.

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