Post-operative physiotherapy management program of inter-trochanteric fracture in an elderly patient

Shivani Bhurchandi, Aachal Birelliwar, Palash Satone, Neha Chitale, Pratik Phansopkar, Rashmi Walke

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

ABSTRACT

Hip fractures are the most common incidences that increase with age an intertrochanteric fracture occurs outside of the hip joint capsule, between the greater and lesser trochanters, along the intertrochanteric line. Falls occurring in patients with senile and postmenopausal osteoporosis account for most of these fractures. Early Physiotherapy management reduces risk of prolonged bed rest and increases chances of early mobility and independence functional activity. A 69-year-old female with an inter-trochanteric fracture was diagnosed on X-ray after she was hit by a cow on left side, on which open reduction and internal fixation with Dynamic Hip Screw was done. Post-op the patient’s concern was pain at the operation site, reduced mobility of the left leg and unable to walk. Post-surgery, patient underwent physiotherapy which comprised of reduction in pain, exercises and gait training for a period of 12 weeks which resulted in improvements in pain, range of motion, functional activities. The case report suggests that classic surgical approach and prompt structured physical rehabilitation led to improving the functional goals progressively and significantly which is a major aspect leading to a successful recovery.

Keywords:

Physical therapy, Inter-trochanteric fracture, Dynamic Hip Screw, Rehabilitation