Physical Therapy Interventions and Functional Outcomes for an 80-Year-Old Female Following Total Knee Replacement and Subsequent Infection: A Case Report

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this case study is to describe the interventions and outcomes of a physical therapy (PT) episode of care in an inpatient skilled nursing facility (SNF) for a subject following a left total knee replacement and subsequent infection. Case Description: The subject was an 80-year-old Caucasian female who was status post left total knee replacement (TKR) with subsequent infection. The subject presented with left knee pain, limited range of motion (ROM), and impaired function. Outcomes: Increased active range of motion (AROM) of left knee, increased balance, increased ambulation distance, improved performance on Tinetti-POMA, and increased independence with bed mobility, transfers, and ambulation. Discussion: PT interventions focused on increasing functional mobility, ROM and strength of involved lower extremity (LE), and ambulation distance and independence may be effective in increasing functional independence and knee mobility of patients following TKR and infection