LONG TERM REHABILITATION RESULTS IN PATIENTS WITH ORTHOPEDIC IMPLANTS OF THE UPPER AND LOWER EXTREMITIES.

A groundbreaking conference paper presented at the 14th Southeast European Conference on Infections and Cancer in October 2024 sheds light on how patients with upper and lower extremity orthopaedic implants do in the long term when they are recovering.

 

This study directly addresses a critical challenge for physiotherapists in post-operative care: the limitations of traditional physiotherapy modalities due to contraindications with metal implants. It examines two novel treatments: kinesiotherapy in conjunction with MLS laser therapy and kinesiotherapy in conjunction with deep oscillation therapy.

 

The findings are promising. Patients in both treatment groups demonstrated significant short-term and long-term improvements in functional status and pain levels. The improvement was tracked using various methods, including pain questionnaires and goniometry.

 

The study's results suggest that deep oscillation and MLS laser therapy can significantly improve symptoms. These findings could mean shorter periods of forced rest and fewer problems after surgery. While a statistically significant difference wasn't reported between the two therapies using one method, the research emphasises the need for long-term studies to determine their potential superiority.

 

This research offers valuable insights and potential alternative strategies for optimising rehabilitation outcomes for patients with orthopaedic implants. Take a look at the full paper to explore the details and consider the implications for your clinical practice.