Active functional restoration and work hardening program returns patient with 2½-year-old elbow fracture-dislocation to work after 6 months: a case report

摘要

The rehabilitation of elbow fracture and dislocation is not generally considered a mainstream chiropractic concern. The clinician who is able to successfully manage the elbow articulation will rely upon his/her knowledge of functional anatomy, pathobiomechanics, history and examination principles, when selecting the appropriate treatment available. A case is presented of an individual that sustained a radial head fracture and dislocation following a motor vehicle accident. Subsequent to receiving 1½ years of physiotherapy for post-surgical complications (decreased range of motion, pain, stiffness and tingling to the 4th and 5th fingers), the patient was referred to a multidisciplinary clinic for a Work Hardening/Conditioning Program. This article discusses the need for active functional restoration vs. passive therapy, work hardening regimens and outcome measures. After 6 months of rehabilitation and 3 years following his motor vehicle accident, the patient has successfully returned to his previous work environment. A summary of the sequential steps in providing appropriate management has been provided.