Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Renee Mabey

Keywords

Arthroscopy -- rehabilitation; Rotator Cuff Injuries -- rehabilitation; Rotator Cuff Injuries -- therapy; Case Reports

Abstract

Background and Purpose. A rotator cuff tear is a common cause of pain and disability among older adults and can lead to a decreased ability to perform daily functions. The purpose of this case report is to look at a single patient's rehabilitation following arthroscopic repair of a rotator cuff tear utilizing therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, and manual therapy techniques.

Case Description. The patient was a 69-year-old, Caucasian male who was referred to physical therapy for evaluation and treatment following left shoulder arthroscopy for rotator cuff tear and sub-acromial decompression. The patient complained of increased pain and decreased function that progressively worsened over several years. Interventions included therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, and manual therapy techniques to decrease pain and increase strength and range of motion.

Outcomes. Following therapeutic interventions over the course of an 8-week period, the patient demonstrated near normal function in his surgically repaired shoulder and had a significant decrease in pain.

Discussion. This case suggests that through the use of therapeutic exercise, neuromuscular re-education, and manual therapy techniques, function will be restored to patients following arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears.

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