Rehabilitation, Therapy Goals for Scleroderma, Acroosteolysis

The patient expressed difficulty with overhead motions, and she reported a sense of decreased balance and proprioception since being diagnosed with scleroderma. Her physical therapist has incorporated many balance activities on the DynaDisc and AIREX foam balance pad to help improve her proprioception and coordination. Exercises that focus on lower extremity strengthening have also been incorporated into the program, such as lateral band walks and squats.

In Sum

Rehabilitation and therapy can’t heal scleroderma, but therapy can help maintain and improve the range of motion in the hands and improve the patient’s overall function. Exercising and stretching regularly can help delay, and sometimes prevent, the development of contractures, which can have a severe impact on quality of life.

Prescribing a program early in the course of a patient’s illness that focuses on endurance and strength, in addition to stretching, can help patients maintain their functional status.

The clinical presentation and needs of the patient with scleroderma can vary, which is why every patient should be given an individualized program to help improve their specific symptoms, address limitations and maximize outcomes.

Lauren Tarsi is in her last year of graduate school at Northeastern University and will graduate with a clinical doctorate in physical therapy in May 2015. Lauren has a strong interest in orthopedic physical therapy and looks forward to starting her career as a physical therapist soon.

Marie B. Corkery, PT, DPT, MHS, FAAOMPT, is an associate clinical professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston.

References

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