Subacute Phase of Healing

Question 1

Impairments

Answer 1

Pain when end of available ROM reached
Decreasing soft tissue edema, joint effusion
Developing soft tissue, muscle, and/or joint contractures
Developing muscle weakness from reduced usage
Decreased functional use of past/associated areas

Question 2

Educate patient

Answer 2

Anticipated healing time and follow guidelines

Teach home exercises & functional activities

Question 3

Promote healing of injured tissue

Answer 3

Monitor response of tissue with exercise
Decrease intensity if inflammation increases
Protect with assistive device
Increase amount of time joint is free to move
Decrease use of assistive device as strength in supporting muscles increases

Question 4

Restore soft tissue, muscle, and/or joint mobility

Answer 4

Progress from P to AA to AROM within pain
Increase mobility of scar
Increase mobility of related structures

Question 5

Develop neuromuscular control, muscle endurance, and strength in involved or related muscles

Answer 5

Progress multiple angle isometric exercises - begin with mild resistance
Initiate AROM and protected WB and stabilization exercises
Assess ROM, joint play, and healing improve, progress isotonic ex. with increased reps
Emphasize control and proper body mechanics
Progress resistance later in stage

Question 6

Maintain integrity and function of associated areas

Answer 6

Apply progressive strengthening and stabilizing

Resume low-intensity functional activities

Question 7

Precautions

Answer 7

Discomfort should not last longer than few hours

Signs of too much motion or activity are resting pain, fatigue, increased weakness, and spasm