The role of dance movement therapy in the postoperative management of patients with lower limb fractures

Abstract

Aim: To determine the effectiveness of dance movement therapy as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program for patients who have undergone surgery for lower limb fractures. Materials and Methods: The study involved 63 patients aged 27 to 59 with lower limb fractures, who were undergoing rehabilitation after surgery (osteosynthesis). A comparative analysis of motor activity in the knee and ankle joints was performed 8-10 weeks after surgery to assess the results of the rehabilitation treatment. Pain levels above 7 were considered a reason for temporary or complete cessation of group therapy sessions. Results: After thorough study, processing and analysis of the data, two clinical groups of patients were distinguished based on the rehabilitation treatment methods applied. According to the KOOS, AOFAS, and VAS scales, the results in the art therapy group were significantly better. During the therapy course, gender-specific changes in pain sensations were identified. Subjective pain perception decreased by 1.49 points in women and by 1.84 points in men after completing the course of dance movement therapy. Conclusions: The implementation of dance movement therapy measures in the group of patients after lower limb fractures requires dynamic adjustment, especially regarding the frequency and speed of performing individual tasks.