Outpatient rehabilitation for a middle-aged woman with suspected cervical radiculopathy

Abstract

A patient with cervical radiculopathy was seen for physical therapy treatment for 10 sessions during the summer of 2020 at a rural outpatient orthopedic clinic under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. The patient was evaluated at the initial encounter with the numeric pain rating scale, goniometry, manual muscle testing, cervical compression and distraction, Spurling’s test, Neck Disability Index, and deep tendon reflex testing and a plan of care was established to address impaired motor and sensory deficits, as well as increased pain levels. The main goals for the patient were reduction of numbness and tingling sensations, reduction of pain, strengthening, increase functional mobility and improved quality of life. The main interventions used were therapeutic exercise with the inclusion of a home exercise program, manual therapy, and mechanical traction. The patient was progressing appropriately and had met all of her goals when her care was transferred to a licensed physical therapist at the completion of the student physical therapist’s summer clinical internship.