# Physiotherapy Rehabilitation for Above-Knee Amputation Secondary to Infected External Fixation: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This case report details the successful physiotherapy rehabilitation of a man who underwent above-knee amputation due to a severe infection following a road traffic accident.

## Contribution

The study presents a comprehensive physiotherapy approach tailored for post-amputation recovery, emphasizing functional independence and quality of life.

## Key findings

- The patient showed significant improvement in range of motion and muscle strength after a four-week physiotherapy program.
- Functional independence and quality of life were enhanced through targeted interventions including mobility training and psychosocial support.
- The rehabilitation plan successfully promoted self-sufficiency and an active lifestyle post-amputation.

## Abstract

This case study examines the total physiotherapy care of a 50-year-old male patient, who had a right-sided displaced distal tibia and fibula fracture, a talus fracture due to a road traffic accident, and an above-knee amputation due to a serious infection. Enhancing muscle strength, reducing pain from phantom limbs, avoiding problems, maintaining range of motion, increasing endurance, and promoting functional independence in the postoperative period were the main goals of the patient's rehabilitation. The recovery plan included an intensive four-week program of physiotherapy care. The regimen included a variety of interventions, such as pain management, edema control, wound healing techniques, range of motion (ROM) exercises, muscle strengthening activities, mobility and transfer exercises, cardiovascular endurance training, psychosocial support, education on prosthetic use, and independence in daily living activities. ROM measures, manual muscle testing, and functional independence measure scores were used to evaluate the patient's improvement. The patient's physical health and level of functional independence both exhibited significant improvements, according to the statistics. Following treatment, the patient's ROM, muscle strength, and overall functional independence all improved. The study highlights the positive impacts of physical therapy interventions on the patient's quality of life, mobility, and self-sufficiency following the amputation and subsequent recovery. These findings support the patient's transition to a more self-sufficient and active lifestyle by providing valuable insights into the efficient use of physiotherapy and the comprehensive post-amputation treatment plan.