UPCOMING JOURNAL CLUB AND CASE DICUSSION DATES

All meetings are 12:00- 1:00 pm on TEAMS.

Case Discussion dates:

05/09 Spine focus

06/06 Spine focus

07/11 Spine focus gain in knee range of motion is 20-30 degrees, with the goal of 15-20 of those degrees being achieved within the rst year of rehabilitation. With patients who are manipulated after 3 months post-op, the range of motion achieved may be much less. Most trials of manipulated patients achieve a nal exion range of motion between 95-115 degrees, which is vital to inform the patient prior to receiving a manipulation. The more informed and understanding a patient is going into these types of procedures, the better the result can be both physically and mentally for them.

Click HERE for the full 2023 CD & JC schedule.

Email Danielle.Dunn@ptsmc.com to be added to the meeting group.

As treating clinicians, what should we do if we suspect one of our patients is demonstrating arthro brosis after a total knee? Dr. Witmer suggests that if a patient is more than 3 months post-op and still displaying a moderate amount of decreased mobility, ruling out infection should be the rst step. Typically, a blood panel to examine ESR/CRP should be obtained from the patient to rule this out. If signs of arthro brosis appear earlier on in a patient’s rehabilitation, it is encouraged that the patient receive a CT scan to rule out any component malrotation. For symptoms that may persist or develop much later in rehab or perhaps following the cessation of rehab (>2 years), a bone scan may be performed to evaluate any loosening of parts. At any stage of care, the discussion between the surgeon and the physical therapist can be the most bene cial at determining the next best step in regard to the patient’s plan of care.

Dr. Witmer emphasized the importance of the relationship and communication between surgeon and treating physical therapist in optimal patient care and prognosis. He emphasizes that pushing our patients appropriately by developing a good understanding of the patient’s pain tolerance, preoperative mobility/function, goals, and utilization of proper language and coaching techniques can be imperative in a patient’s rehabilitative success. He underlined the importance of our role as physical therapists to assist in preparing and educating our patients regarding the TKA procedure and possible outcomes. Early treatment and team communication are essential for good patient outcomes, and Dr. Witmer encourages treating clinicians to reach out to him with any treatment questions or concerns regarding our patient’s status at any point throughout their TKA rehabilitation.