The Power of Movement: A Comprehensive Case Study of Physiotherapeutic Approaches in Electrical Injury Rehabilitation

Cureus. 2024 Jul 15;16(7):e64615. doi: 10.7759/cureus.64615. eCollection 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Electrical injuries are common phenomena in developing countries, due to inadequate safety measures followed during day-to-day electrical repairs. Workplace injuries account for 20% of these. In some severe cases, electrical injuries lead to burns, indirect fracture dislocations, speech impairments, etc. Falls due to electrical injuries leading to secondary complications are very common and, even though not very severe, they do require immediate treatment and adequate rehabilitation. A 53-year-old male suffered a shoulder injury following an electrical shock. The patient also experienced irritation and speech disturbances. Examination revealed a reduced range of shoulder joints and tightness of muscles of the shoulder complex. Physiotherapy intervention included counseling for the patient and his family members, energy conservation methods for ease in daily activities, a rehabilitation protocol, and modified music therapy. Outcome measures used to assess the progression constituted the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), and the Depression and Anxiety and Stress Scale. Rehabilitation with adjunct therapy is effective in the overall improvement of the patient's condition concerning their mental health as well as physical health by early strength training.

Keywords: fracture dislocation; neurological impairment; rehabilitation; shock; shoulder.

Publication types

  • Case Reports