Case Study: Road Traffic Accident Rehabilitation at AquaPhysio
KM was referred to AquaPhysio following multiple injuries sustained in a road traffic accident. His injuries included a right patellectomy, an open fracture of his right femur with extensive soft tissue damage, and a fracture of the right humeral head. These injuries significantly impacted his mobility, function, and quality of life.
Initial Assessment and Treatment Plan
Upon assessment, KM exhibited vastly decreased range of motion in his right shoulder and experienced extensive pain. His right knee flexion was limited to 50 degrees, and corrective surgery was planned to enhance movement. Given the severity of his shoulder restrictions, initial rehabilitation focused on improving his shoulder's range of motion, reducing pain, and enhancing muscle control and stability.
At the start of therapy, KM's shoulder range of motion was measured as follows:
- Flexion: 90 degrees
- Abduction: 75 degrees
A hydrotherapy-based exercise program was initiated to facilitate movement while minimising pain and joint stress. Over the course of seven one-on-one therapy sessions in the pool, KM's exercises were progressively adapted to meet his evolving needs.
Outcomes Following Shoulder Rehabilitation
By the end of his hydrotherapy sessions, KM demonstrated significant improvement in shoulder mobility and pain levels:
- Flexion: 130 degrees
- Abduction: 100 degrees
- Pain levels: Reduced by 50%
With these improvements, KM was deemed ready for his planned corrective surgery on his right quadriceps.
Post-Surgical Knee Rehabilitation
Two months after surgery, KM resumed hydrotherapy at AquaPhysio to focus on restoring knee mobility. At this stage, his knee flexion was measured at 90 degrees, with a treatment goal of achieving 120 degrees to enable cycling and improved functional mobility.
Over the next four weeks, KM gradually reduced his reliance on pain relief while maintaining the intensity of his rehabilitation program. He attended four additional hydrotherapy sessions, which contributed to:
- An increase in knee flexion to 102 degrees
- Improved walking endurance
- Regular gym attendance
- Significant pain reduction
Patient Testimonial
KM shared his personal experience and appreciation for the AquaPhysio team:
"Good morning all at AquaPhysio. As you can see, I am enjoying a short holiday in Perranporth, Cornwall. Because of your help, I was able to walk a few hundred metres and even attempted to throw a ball for the dog with my bad arm. Sadly, that was unsuccessful and went about six feet. However, to throw at all and not be in agony was amazing. Thank you for what has been the most effective physio I have received since my accident. I am very grateful; not just for the hydrotherapy but also the skill, knowledge, and care of your team."
Conclusion
KM's case highlights the effectiveness of hydrotherapy in a complex rehabilitation journey. Through a structured and progressive program, significant gains were achieved in pain management, mobility, and functional independence. His journey continues, but the foundations laid at AquaPhysio have played a pivotal role in his recovery.