Questions and Answers
What musculoskeletal effect is a therapist most likely to examine for in a patient with hypothyroidism experiencing muscle pain in the lower extremities?
Which musculoskeletal condition associated with hypothyroidism can exacerbate a patient's recovery from a fall?
In patients with hypothyroidism, which musculoskeletal examination finding could be misleadingly assumed to be present due to other conditions?
What is the least likely contributing factor to the muscle pain in the lower extremities of a patient with hypothyroidism?
Signup and view all the answers
When assessing an elderly patient with hypothyroidism and muscle pain, which symptom should a therapist prioritize to ensure safety during therapy?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Patient Background
- Elderly patient diagnosed with hypothyroidism.
- Currently recovering from a fall.
- Referred to physical therapy to improve exercise tolerance and safety.
Symptoms and Complaints
- Reports significant muscle pain in both lower extremities.
- Suggests potential underlying musculoskeletal issues needing assessment.
Potential Musculoskeletal Effects to Examine
-
Distal Muscle Weakness
- May indicate generalized muscle impairment or neurological involvement.
-
Proximal Muscle Weakness
- Commonly associated with hypothyroidism due to myopathy.
- Can hinder functional activities like rising from sitting or climbing stairs.
-
Joint Laxity
- Check for signs of hypermobility that might lead to instability after a fall.
-
Decreased Deep Tendon Reflexes
- Reduced reflex activity can suggest neurological dysfunction, often seen in hypothyroid conditions.
Importance of Assessment
- Comprehensive evaluation aids in tailoring rehabilitation strategies to enhance recovery and prevent further injuries.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz focuses on the musculoskeletal effects experienced by an elderly patient recovering from a fall with hypothyroidism. It assesses the physical therapist's understanding of potential symptoms such as muscle weakness and joint laxity. Learn how to identify and evaluate these effects to improve patient care.
