Application of therapeutic exercises for comminuted fractures of the elbow joint in the post-immobilization period

Abstract

Aim. To assess the effectiveness of the physical therapy program based on therapeutic exercises using a block system, an upper limb simulator and weights for patients with comminuted fractures of the elbow joint in the post-immobilization period.

Materials and methods. Analysis of special literature on the problems of using physical therapy tools for elbow joint fractures; objective/subjective scales for assessing the effectiveness of rehabilitation intervention and the degree of severity of disorders according to the IFC categories and levels of “structure/function” and “activity/participation”, including goniometry; manual muscle testing; visual analog pain scale; scale for measuring limitations of the shoulder, arm and hand (Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Outcome Measure (QuickDASH); pedagogical methods (compilation of a physical therapy program); methods of mathematical statistics were used.

Results. The effectiveness of the impact of the physical therapy program, which includes therapeutic exercises of various directions using a block system and a simulator for the upper limb, as well as weights, on the functional state of body systems for patients after comminuted fractures of the elbow joint in the post-immobilization period, was assessed. After applying rehabilitation measures, positive dynamics of the indicators of the cardiovascular, respiratory system and musculoskeletal system studied was observed in men of both groups. However, it should be noted a more pronounced reliable nature of positive changes in the men of the main group, namely, the muscle strength of the injured limb increased, adaptation to physical activity improved and indicators based on the assessment scales for the ICF categories improved. The results of the QuickDASH questionnaire showed reliable indicators in the recovery of physical function and a significant reduction in functional limitations of the upper limb (p < 0.001).

Conclusions. The therapeutic exercises proposed using a block system, weights and an upper limb simulator for patients with comminuted fractures of the elbow joint in the post-immobilization period have a positive effect on the functional state of the damaged upper limb, namely, restoration of movements in the elbow joint and strengthening of the muscles of the injured limb.