Description
This presentation, delivered by Daniel Richards, focuses on a case study of ACL rehabilitation during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. Daniel introduces himself as a physiotherapist with a strong sporting background and experience working with Liverpool Football Club. He presents the case of a young male patient in his 20s, athletic and active, who experienced an ACL rupture in his right knee in spring 2018 and underwent a straightforward rehabilitation process. \n\nWhen this patient faced a second ACL injury in his left knee in 2020, the rehabilitative environment drastically changed due to the pandemic. Unlike the first rehabilitation experience, the 2020 rehab had to adapt to online sessions via Zoom, as clinics and gyms were closed, and the government advised people to stay home. Despite this challenge, the patient maintained high compliance and motivation throughout the process. \n\nThe rehabilitation phases were initially conservative, utilizing facilitated online therapy sessions to implement exercises such as straight leg raises and hip extensions. The second phase of rehab required innovation without access to traditional gym equipment, leading Daniel to adapt exercises to the patient's home environment, utilizing household items and outdoor activities. \n\nThe patient remained active through cycling, which was beneficial for building strength and cardiovascular fitness. Eventually, the program progressed to running and jumping exercises, demonstrating the adaptability of rehabilitation methods within the constraints of COVID-19. Daniel concluded that the rehabilitation was successful, highlighted by the patient’s regained functionality and return to all pre-injury activities without significant burdens. The case is seen as a testament to the effectiveness of technology and patient engagement in physiotherapy during challenging times.
DOI: 10.1302/3114-210680