Abstract
A patient with right gluteal pain and lower extremity (LE) radiating pain was seen for physical therapy treatment by a student physical therapist for 15 sessions over the course of 28 days at an outpatient physical therapy clinic under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The patient was evaluated at the initial encounter with Manual Muscle Test, lumbar active range of motion using Finger to Floor test, LE neurological screen, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, and sustained thoracolumbar positions while standing for centralization. A plan of care was established to address mobility, lower extremity muscle weakness, peripheralization symptoms, pain, abdominal muscle coordination issues, all of which contributed to limitations in walking tolerance, sitting tolerance, stair navigation, and physically socializing with his family. The primary patient-centered goals were to return to playing the piano, walk with his wife, and play with his grandchildren without being limited by pain. Interventions derived from a treatment-based approach included, matched directional preference exercises, LE strengthening, thoracolumbar mobilization, manual therapy, static balance, trunk coordination, sciatic nerve glides and a return to walking program. The patient achieved the following goals: walking and sitting for longer than 60 minutes, pain free stair negotiation, and return to participation in family activities. The patient was discharged to his home.