Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Mark Romanick

Keywords

Accidents, Traffic; Brain Injuries, Traumatic -- therapy; Fractures, Multiple -- rehabilitation; Mental Health; Motorcycles; Physical Therapy Modalities; Subacute Care; Case Reports

Abstract

Background and Purpose. This case report describes the 3.5-week inpatient physical therapy management of an 18-year-old female involved in a motorcycle accident resulting in multiple orthopedic injuries, a mild brain injury, and multiple skin abrasions. She was non-weight bearing (NWB) with her bilateral upper extremities, toe-touch weight bearing (TTWB) on her right lower extremity, and weight bearing as tolerated (WBAT) on her left lower extremity throughout the course of her treatment. The purpose of this case report is to describe the various physical therapy (PT) interventions utilized for this patient and the patient's status after completion of them.

Case Description. The treatment of this patient involved bed mobility, balance activities, transfers, stretching, range of motion, therapeutic exercise, wheelchair mobility, and a variety of patient and family education.

Outcomes. Although we cannot conclude the patient's accomplishments were influenced by our physical therapy management, at discharge she showed improvements in her 6-clicks functional measurement assessment score, bed mobility, transfers, wheelchair mobility, strength, range of motion (ROM), and pain.

Discussion. Rationale for treatment was based on literature supporting the importance of early and continued hospital mobilization to decrease length of stay and maximize functional mobility for safe discharge. Treatment was altered or progressed based on the patient's symptoms and/or treatment response.

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