Nerve Compression Syndromes of the Upper Extremity: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Rehabilitation.

Nerve compression syndromes of the upper extremity: diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

R I Med J (2013). 2013; 96(5): 37-9
Mansuripur PK, Deren ME, Kamal R

Nerve compression syndromes of the upper extremity, including carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, posterior interosseous syndrome and radial tunnel syndrome, are common in the general population. Diagnosis is made based on patient complaint and history as well as specific exam and study findings. Treatment options include various operative and nonoperative modalities, both of which include aspects of hand therapy and rehabilitation. HubMed – rehab

Essentials of anterior cruciate ligament rupture management.

R I Med J (2013). 2013; 96(5): 28-32
Hulstyn MJ, Klinge SA, Sawyer GA

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a common knee injury and an understanding of current medical knowledge regarding its management is essential. Accurate and prompt diagnosis requires an awareness of injury mechanisms and risk factors, common symptoms and physical/radiologic findings. Early mobilization and physical therapy improves outcomes regardless of treatment modality. Many older patients regain sufficient stability and function after non-operative rehabilitation. Early ACL reconstruction is appropriate for younger patients and those who engage in activities requiring frequent pivoting and rapid direction changes. ACL surgery involves reconstruction of the torn ligament tissue with various replacement graft options, each with advantages and disadvantages. The guidance of a knowledgeable and experienced therapist is required throughout an intensive and prolonged rehabilitation course. Generally excellent outcomes and low complication rates are expected, but treatment does not prevent late osteoarthritis. HubMed – rehab

Management of ankle fractures.

R I Med J (2013). 2013; 96(5): 23-7
Hsu RY, Bariteau J

Ankle fractures are a common injury across all age groups. Management may be operative or nonoperative, depending on the severity of the injury and the patient’s overall health and functional status. Although imaging defines the nature of the fracture, a careful history and physical also helps determine the patient’s plan of care. Initial management is focused on adequate alignment and safe immobilization of the injury. Definitive management must provide anatomic alignment of the joint as well as consideration of the surrounding soft tissues. Rehabilitation after either operative or nonoperative treatment aims at restoring range of motion, strength, proprioception, and function. HubMed – rehab

Rehabilitation for total joint arthroplasty.

R I Med J (2013). 2013; 96(5): 19-22
Ritterman S, Rubin LE

Total hip and knee replacement are two of the most common and successful elective surgeries preformed in the United States each year. Preoperative medical preparation and postoperative rehabilitation are equally important to a successful outcome. Physical deconditioning, tobacco use, obesity and medical co-morbidities can adversely affect outcomes and should be addressed before any elective procedure. Formal postoperative therapy is geared towards the specific surgery and is aimed at returning the patient to independent activity. HubMed – rehab