Impact of physiotherapy rehabilitation on septic arthritis secondary to Hansen’s disease

Dhanashree Ghive1, Swapna Jawade*, Om C. Wadhokar

Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, Maharashtra, India.

ABSTRACT

Leprosy, commonly known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious illness caused by the bacteria Myobacterium leprae. The presence of the musculoskeletal system is the third most common symptom. Acute onset of arthritis is documented secondary to Hansen’s disease. Septic arthritis is a joint infection that causes excruciating pain, it typically manifests as a single hot, swollen, and extremely painful joint. The main aim of physical therapy is to recover from functional impairment as a result of Hansen's disease and to tailor lifestyle changes to help the patient regain functional independence. In this case study, updated physiotherapy rehabilitation of septic arthritis following borderline Tuberculoid Hansen's disease has been demonstrated to be important in restoring range of motion (ROM), muscular strength, and pain alleviation. A male with 46 year of age presented to the orthopedic department with the symptoms of pain and swelling of the knee of the right side since 1 month without any history of fall or twisting injury. He was advised for the investigations of x-ray and MRI and arthrocentesis of right knee was done during which pus was found and aspirated. He was diagnosed with septic arthritis of right knee joint. Patient was operated with diagnostic arthroscopy of right knee where debridement was done. Patient then was referred to physiotherapy department with the complaints of pain and stiffness over right knee joint, with restricted range of motion. He was known case of Hansen’s disease. He was started with physiotherapy rehabilitation protocol for 6 weeks where cryotherapy, TENS, passive ROM, active assisted and active ROM exercises were given. Focus was also made on improving strength. In this case study physiotherapy rehabilitation protocol used had significantly reduce the pain, increased ROM, muscle strength and endurance which considerably help the patient in restoring his functional independence at home and work place.

Keywords:

Hansen’s disease, septic arthritis, physiotherapy rehabilitation.