Physiotherapy Outcomes in an Elderly Patient Following Postoperative Shoulder Dislocation with K-Wire Fixation: A Case Report

Angelita Noor Ramadhini; Totok Budi Santoso; Lathiifah Muknatun Amiin

doi:10.24843/mifi.000001783

Authors

Angelita Noor Ramadhini Professional Education for Physiotherapist, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Totok Budi Santoso Department of Physiotherapy, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia Author
Lathiifah Muknatun Amiin RSU PKU Muhammadiyah Jatinom, Klaten, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/mifi.000001783

Keywords:

Shoulder Dislocation, Exercise Therapy, Physical Therapy Modalities, Postoperative Care, Aged, Rehabilitation

Abstract

Background: Shoulder dislocation is a common musculoskeletal injury associated with pain, reduced range of motion (ROM), decreased muscle strength, and functional limitations, particularly in elderly patients following surgery.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of physiotherapy intervention in an elderly patient following postoperative shoulder dislocation.

Methods: This case report involved a 75-year-old female with postoperative right shoulder dislocation following surgical reduction and K-wire fixation. Outcomes included pain assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), muscle strength using Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), ROM using a goniometer, and functional ability using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. The intervention consisted of therapeutic exercises (ROM, strengthening, scapular stabilization, and proprioceptive training), physiotherapy modalities (infrared and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), and a home exercise program. Data were analyzed descriptively without statistical testing. Assessments were conducted at pre-intervention (T1–T2) and post-intervention (T3–T4).

Results: Pain decreased from NRS 6 to 4 (Δ = −2). Muscle strength improved from MMT grade 3 to 4 across all movements. ROM increased in both sagittal and frontal planes. Functional ability improved, with DASH scores decreasing from 52.5 to 43.3 (Δ = −9.2).

Conclusion: Physiotherapy intervention resulted in clinically meaningful improvements in pain, ROM, muscle strength, and functional outcomes in an elderly postoperative shoulder dislocation patient. However, these findings are limited to a single case with a short follow-up period and should be interpreted with caution.