Impairment-based examination and disability management of an elderly woman with sacroiliac region pain.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this case report is to describe the use of a cluster of sacroiliac tests in conjunction with an impairment-based model of examination, diagnosis, and management of sacroiliac region pain.


METHODS
The patient was a 74-year-old woman with an 18-month history of low back, left buttock, and groin pain following a misstep. The initial symptoms were intermittent. The symptoms became constant and limited her walking tolerance to 5 minutes, which affected her ability to care for her grandchildren. She was examined using a cluster of sacroiliac tests that examined: (1) innominate active mobility, (2) innominate positional symmetry, and (3) sacroiliac ligament tenderness.


RESULTS
Following 4 treatments for identified impairments, the patient had unlimited walking tolerance and she resumed an active caregiving role for her grandchildren.


CONCLUSIONS
This case illustrates the use of an impairment-based model for examination and management of an elderly patient with what appeared to be sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
Godges
Joseph J
JJ
Kaiser Permanente Southern California Orthopedic Physical Therapy Residency, Los Angeles, CA.
Varnum
Denisa R
DR
Sanders
Kelly M
KM
D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D008349:Manipulation, Orthopedic / Q000379:methods*; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012446:Sacroiliac Joint / Q000503:physiopathology*