The Pulse

Decreasing Pain and Improving Functional Mobility with Electrical Stimulation and Exercise

Posted by ACP on Oct 28, 2019 8:33:47 PM

Patient Information: Male, Age 49

Diagnosis: Pneumonia / Neuropathy

History: This gentleman was found by EMS unable to get out of bed and covered in soiled bedding with insect infestation, and reported he hasn’t been out of bed for “quite some time.” He
was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia, then transferred to a skilled nursing facility
for rehabilitation services.

Pre-Therapy Status:
•Bed Mobility: Dependent (100% assistance) with complaints of pain.
•Transfers: Dependent (100% assistance) with complaints of pain.
•Self-Care (Bathing, Dressing, Toileting): Dependent (100% assistance).
•Ambulation: Unable to walk.

Therapy Information:
•Modality: OmniVersa® Ultrasound/Electrotherapy System.
•Frequency: 5x per week.
•Protocol Specifics: Interferential current (IFC) pre-mod electrical stimulation to both legs to decrease pain for four weeks, and progressed to patterned electrical neuromuscular stimulation (PENS) to both legs to increase strength and coordination.
•Duration: Nine weeks.
•Other Therapy Services Provided: Therapeutic exercise, transfer training, gait training, and activities of daily living
(self-care activities).

Outcome:
•Bed Mobility: Independent.
•Transfers: Independent.
•Self-Care (Bathing, Dressing, Toileting): Independent.
•Ambulation: Community distances with a rollator walker.

This gentleman gave the staff a thank you card: “I just wanted to let you know that I am so very grateful for all the help you have given to me in the last 3 months. If it wasn’t for all of you putting in 110%, I might still be in a hospital bed or in a grave. You have all given me the hope and chance to get better and move on with my life. Thanks again.”

Topics: Pain Management, Patient Success Story, Neuro Rehab