Diagnostic Reasoning and Physiotherapy Treatment for A 65 Years Old Female with Left Sided Frozen Shoulder

Abstract

Introduction: Frozen shoulder is a self-limiting condition that affects daily activities. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential for better prognosis. Accurate diagnosis largely depends on reasoning skills of physiotherapy practitioners.

Methods: Case study.

Intervention: In this case, pattern recognition was used as diagnostic reasoning and posterior to anterior and caudal mobilization techniques to decrease pain and improve range of motion. Beside, theraband was to strengthen muscle strength of shoulder as well.

Results: After application of 12 sessions of treatment, patient showed improvement in pain at VAS by 5 cm, improvement in passive ROMs by 20°, 10° and 25° in consequently in abduction, medial rotation and lateral rotation, improvement in SPDI by 42% and muscle power improved by Grade I in abductors, medical rotators and lateral rotators.

Conclusion: Reasoning process helps physiotherapist for correct diagnosis and application of evidence based physiotherapy intervention showed significant improvements in symptoms after frozen shoulder.