Abstract
A patient with total left knee arthroplasty was seen for physical therapy (PT) treatment for 16 sessions from May to July, 2016 at an outpatient PT clinic. Treatment was provided by a student physical therapist under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The patient was evaluated at the initial encounter with manual muscle tests, range of motion (ROM) measurements, girth measurements, numeric pain rating scale, and gait evaluation. Based on the patient’s test results, a plan of care was established. The main goals for the patient were to decrease pain and swelling, improve strength, ROM, gait during functional activities, functional independence and static and dynamic standing balance. The main interventions used were aquatic therapy, strength training, flexibility, and functional training. The patient improved her strength, ROM, motor control, gait sequencing, speed, balance, and functional independence. The patient was discharged home with a home exercise program and a follow up with her physician.