|
FLAOrthoPT -> Re: I need Help for elbow joint. (December 3, 2004 2:20:00 AM)
|
typically this is a frustrating joint sp don't get down on yourself. Since the typical carrying angle is that of somehwat flexion about 30 degrees. the elbow rarely gets straightened in daily activities so these contracted joints occur frequently and are a pain in the ass to get rid of. A dynamic splint is not a bad idea. I willuse a towel to distract while they go in arom, ala mulligan technique. make sure you mob the radial ulna as well as the ulnar humeral. If there is any fixation device present inside I would say this is about what this person will have for range give or take 5 degrees on either sdie. You may get them to 5-135 but I can almost guarantee you that in one year they'd be back to just about this. A contracted joint this old does not respond well to contract relax in my opinion/experience. IT is a bit more brute mobs, manip if appropriate, and VERY good patient compliance about possibly using body weight to gain flexion and dynamic splint for extension. mob it in supination, neutral, pronation. But dont beat yourself up on this one, especially with today's insurance where you may get to see him 2 times a week for 3 weeks don't expect too much. Sorry for being a pessimist..err realist....ortho consult though is def. in order if you do not have the patient compliance necessary. Last question: functionally is this limiting him from doing anything?
|
|
|
|