Outpatient Physical Therapy Management Of A Patient Three Months Following Left Shoulder Arthroscopic Repair Of A Type-II SLAP Lesion: A Case Report

Background and Purpose: Research demonstrates a drastic increase in the prevalence of type-II superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesion repairs, and its surgical correction has become the favored method of treatment, because of its ability to effectively improve quality of life (QOL). The purpose of this case report is to document the examination, evaluation, and plan of care (POC) concerning a patient who was referred to physical therapy (PT) three months following the surgical correction of a type-II SLAP lesion. Case Description: The patient was a middle-aged male who was referred to PT for evaluation and treatment following an arthroscopic repair of his left shoulder to correct a type-II SLAP lesion. The POC consisted of modalities and procedural interventions that were directed to decrease his pain and improve his left shoulder range of motion (ROM), muscle weakness, poor postural awareness, and abnormal scapulohumeral rhythm in preparation for his return to work without restrictions. Outcomes: The patient reported minimal discomfort and demonstrated vastly improved left shoulder ROM, strength, postural awareness, and scapulohumeral rhythm upon the conclusion of his POC. According to the Upper Extremity Functional Index (UEFI), which was completed throughout his POC, he had eliminated his impairments and returned to his pre-injury QOL before discharge. The patient was capable of returning to work free of restrictions. Discussion: The patient was an excellent candidate for PT because of his perfect attendance and compliance with his home exercise program. Although his impairments and functional limitations were unique to him as an individual, his thoroughly documented POC could be beneficial to other physical therapists, who are treating an individual with a similar diagnosis