Faculty Advisor(s)

Michael Fillyaw

Document Type

Course Paper

Publication Date

12-2-2014

Rights

© 2014 Cameron McCombs

Abstract

Background and Purpose: With advances in medicine, there are increasing numbers of people living after stroke. One of the major factors that can limit improvement in ability to complete functional tasks is cognitive dysfunction. Cognitive rehabilitation in conjunction with large amounts of repetition during physical therapy can result in lasting neuronal changes and help improve the safety of patients. The purpose of this case study is to describe the decision making process for physical therapy examination and intervention for a patient who had a stroke with accompanying cognitive dysfunction and decreased safety awareness. Case Description: The patient was a male over age 85 who had a stroke. A computed tomography scan showed a small infarction involving the left parietal region that confirmed the stroke. Further examination confirmed impairments with cognition, strength, endurance, and balance, which affected his ability to safely perform functional tasks. Outcomes: The patient received treatment over the span of approximately five weeks. The patient improved in his ability to safely perform functional transfers, static and dynamic balance, and improved in cognitive function. Discussion: The patient’s improvement from the initial evaluation to discharge was sufficient enough to permit him to return to his prior living situation. This case demonstrates that a program based on balance, strength, and endurance with cognitive training may help. Future case reports should further investigate the influence of cognitive training with other forms of therapy.

Comments

The case report poster for this paper can be found here: http://dune.une.edu/pt_studcrposter/8

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