Abstract
A 41-year-old female patient with glenohumeral joint restriction was seen in an outpatient physical therapy clinic for 12 sessions. Interventions were provided by a student physical therapist under the direct supervision of a licensed physical therapist. At the initial evaluation, the patient was assessed with goniometry, the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, manual muscle testing, the Patient-Specific Functional Scale, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index. A plan of care was established based upon the identified body structure and function impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Primary goals for this episode of care included increased range-of-motion, improved strength, decreased pain, and return to functional activities with modifications. Interventions included joint mobilization techniques, soft tissue mobilization, progressive functional strengthening, education, and a home exercise program. Improvements in shoulder range-of-motion, strength, pain level, and functional activities were observed six weeks following initial evaluation. As goals set at initial evaluation were only partially met, further physical therapy services were recommended. Subsequently, the patient received an updated home exercise program and extended physical therapy services for four more sessions under the care of the supervising licensed physical therapist.