Abstract
A 61-year-old female who was 4-weeks status-post right anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction was seen for physical therapy treatment in an outpatient orthopedic clinic. The patient was seen twice per week for 8 weeks. Physical therapy interventions were administered by a student under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist.
The patient was evaluated at the initial encounter with range of motion screening, strength testing, gait observation, and the Lower Extremity Functional Scale. A plan of care was established to address decreased right knee range of motion, decreased right hip strength, impaired gait mechanics, and decreased functional capabilities. Main goals set for the patient were to improve range of motion, strength, gait, neuromuscular control, functional independence, and to return to work as a volunteer Fire Chief. In addition, the patient’s goal was to return to tending to her farm and livestock. The patient made improvements in each of these areas and was able to achieve most of the goals established. The patient was discharged to continue living at home with her husband.