The Pulse

Improving Functional Mobility Using Electrical Stimulation and Exercise

Posted by ACP on Sep 23, 2019 5:03:08 PM

Patient Information: Male, Age 96

Diagnosis: Fall / Compression Fracture

History: This gentleman was referred to a skilled nursing facility following hospitalization due to a fall in his garage which resulted in a thoracic compression fracture of the spine. Prior to the fall, he lived at home and was independent with ambulation, driving and mowing his yard.

Pre-Therapy Status:
•Leg Strength: Fair plus (3+/5) throughout both legs.
•Ambulation: Unable to walk; used a wheelchair.
•Tinetti Gait and Balance Assessment: Score 12/28, indicating high fall risk.

Therapy Information:
•Modality: OmniVersa® Ultrasound/Electrotherapy System
•Frequency: 3x per week.
•Protocol Specifics: Patterned electrical neuromuscular stimulation (PENS) lower extremity triphasic to both legs to improve strength and endurance.
•Duration: Six weeks.
•Other Therapy Services Provided: Gait training, transfer training, balance and therapeutic exercise.

Outcome:
•Leg Strength: Good plus (4+/5) throughout both legs.
•Ambulation: 300 feet with a rollator walker.
•Tinetti Gait and Balance Assessment: Score 24/28, indicating low fall risk.

This gentleman and his family are thrilled about his accomplishments in therapy! He is now living in an independent living apartment, walking to meals using his rollator walker, performing household chores and attending exercise group sessions.

Topics: Fall Prevention & Balance, Patient Success Story