Rehabilitation Towards Functional Independence in a Patient With Intertrochanteric Fracture and Paraplegia: A Case Report

This case report discusses the rehabilitation of a 45-year-old male with paraplegia who suffered an intertrochanteric (IT) fracture. The patient had a history of spinal cord injury (SCI) and sustained the fracture during a transfer. The report details the physiotherapy management and its role in preventing complications and improving muscle strength. The patient's condition required a comprehensive rehabilitation approach, including patient education, swelling reduction, correction of limb length discrepancy, and prevention of pulmonary and cardiovascular complications. Physiotherapy interventions focused on maintaining range of motion, improving muscle tone, and strengthening upper extremities. The outcomes of the rehabilitation program included reduced swelling, equalized limb length through shoe modification, improved range of motion, and enhanced muscle strength. The case highlights the importance of physiotherapy in postoperative management to improve patient independence and prevent complications in paraplegic patients with fractures.

• 1
  Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the postoperative management of intertrochanteric fractures in paraplegic patients. It helps prevent complications like bed sores, joint stiffness, muscle wasting, and pulmonary issues.
• 2
  Early physiotherapy intervention, initiated on postoperative day three, can aid in reducing associated complications and improving the patient's overall functional outcome.
• 3
  Rehabilitation focused on maintaining or improving residual strength in the upper extremities is essential for upcoming rehabilitation and promoting patient independence.