Article

There is no routinely prescribed protocol to address
quadriceps weakness and functional impairments following a total knee
arthroplasty (TKA).
The purpose of this case report is to introduce and describe
the early use of a daily adjustable progressive resistance exercise (DAPRE)
protocol as an adjunct to standard rehabilitation to maximize quadriceps muscle
strength and functional performance in an elderly homebound patient following a TKA.
CASE DESCRIPTION: A 61-year-old female was referred to home care physical
therapy for 6 weeks following left TKA due to functional deficits and inability
to activate the weak left quadriceps muscle. In phase I, the patient received
three visits with emphasis on edema management, improving left knee range of
motion, and reducing pain. Phase II consisted of two main components: (1) a DAPRE
protocol aimed at maximizing the quadriceps strength and (2) functional training
aimed at improving normal gait patterns, transfers, and dynamic balance.
OUTCOMES: The patient made substantial improvements in both quadriceps muscle
strength and functional performance in the first seven weeks following the TKA.
The patient had a pain free return to daily living activities.
DISCUSSION: The
results suggest that early initiation of a DAPRE protocol was free of adverse
events and improved quadriceps strength and functional performance for this patient.

Langue : ANGLAIS