Abstract
A 60-year-old male with acute low back pain was seen for student physical therapy treatment for 5 total treatment sessions over a 2-week period in an outpatient facility under the supervision of a licensed PT. The patient was evaluated at the initial encounter with the numeric pain rating scale, active lumbar range of motion, manual muscle tests, deep tendon reflexes, and passive accessory intervertebral movements. Activity limitations were assessed using patient reported activities and the Modified Oswestry Disability Index Questionnaire. Participation restrictions were assessed using elements from the Fear avoidance Belief Questionnaire-Physical Activity Subscale, and patient reported ability to play with grandson. A plan of care was established to address the patient’s severe low back pain and lower extremity pain, moderate hip and core weakness, severe disability with his daily activities, and his restriction from playing with his grandson and participating in yard maintenance. Main goals for the patient were to decrease his pain, increase his function, and increase his participation with his grandson. Main interventions used were an extension-oriented exercise program, hip and core strengthening, and patient education about necessary activity modification and shaping maladaptive beliefs. The patient achieved the following goals: significant reduction in pain and disability, increased hip and core strength, and increased participation in playing with his grandson and yard maintenance. The patient was discharged to continue living at home with his individualized home exercise program to continue his rehabilitation independently.