Injuries restored to ROM using PSWD and mobilizations

The purpose of this paper is to report the cases of 7 subjects who lacked full range of motion (ROM) in the elbow, and my treatment regimen of PSWD and joint mobilizations. 7 subjects presented with decreased elbow (ROM) due to extensive fractures and or dislocations from traumatic injuries. All subjects were post-surgical, 2 with internal fixation devices. Initial active extension for each patient was 17°, 23°, 28°, 25°, 45°, 30°, 26° respectively (range of 17-45 degrees). Treatment regimen consisted of PSWD to the anterior elbow for 20 min at 48 watts. Immediately after PSWD, mobilizations were administered to the elbow. Extension improved 19°, 21°, 25°, 23°, 20°, 30°, and 26°, respectively, after 6 or less treatments (range of 19-30 degrees). All but 1 patient returned to normal activities with functional ROM in all planes. Follow-up 4 weeks later indicated that all of the subjects maintained 85-100% of their extension. No negative effects were reported during the short-term follow-up. When precautions are taken, I propose PSWD (48 W) may be an appropriate adjunct to joint mobilizations to increase ROM in peripheral joints despite implanted metal.