The 5 Phases of Rehabilitation

The Isokinetic Innovation in Rehabilitation: The 5-Phase Approach

Isokinetic has developed a unique and exclusive method that is based on 5 steps:

Phase 1: Resolution of pain, inflammation and acute symptoms
Phase 2: Recovery of range of motion and flexibility
Phase 3: Recovery of maximum strength and muscle endurance
Phase 4: Recovery of proprioception and coordination
Phase 5: Recovery of daily activities or sports specific skills

Each phase is closely related to the other and can be carried out in partial overlap with the next or previous phases.

This protocol makes it easier for you and your physician to monitor progress and gradually set the following goals.

The 5 phases are not necessarily defined by time limits as each person will take “their own time” to achieve their goals

1

Resolution of pain, inflammation and acute symptoms

The first phase focuses on addressing pain, swelling, and other acute issues, such as those arising from a recent injury or the post-operative period.

The rehabilitation specialist may alternatively use physical therapies and manual therapies

2

Recovery of range of motion and flexibility

The goal of this second phase is to recover the full range of motion of a joint (joint excursion) or to restore specific motion without any pain.

The rehabilitation specialist may use a variety of techniques, such as joint mobilization or muscle stretching.

Work on joint mobility should be started as early as possible to achieve complete recovery.

The experience and skill of the rehabilitation specialist are fundamental. Following a correct treatment path means finding balance. An overly aggressive approach could lead to more inflamation, while one that is too mild would risk causing stiffness in joints left inactive.

3

Recovery of maximum strength and muscle endurance

The goals of the third phase are to restore strength, muscle tone, and recover endurance.

The rehabilitation specialist will work on muscle strengthening following the principle of load progression to avoid overexertion. From the early stages, much work will be done on fatigue and exertion endurance (aerobic capacity), considering the patient’s physical condition and potential and always under close medical supervision.

Stimulating the muscles and parts of the musculoskeletal system early on facilitates the process of strength recovery and return to pre-injury standards.

The ability to quantitatively measure the work performed through tests is essential. These tests are the isokinetic test and the aerobic metabolism assessment test (threshold test).

4

Recovery of proprioception and coordination.

The goal of this phase is the recovery of coordination and proprioception

Any injury to the musculoskeletal system leads to changes in proprioceptive mechanisms, which are the sensory and neuromotor processes that allow us to sense our body’s position in space and our own movements.

Proprioception must be restored as soon as possible to ensure complete recovery, enhance motor skills awareness, and prevent recurrence.

Proprioceptive reeducation does not have fixed qualitative, quantitative, or temporal patterns. It relies on the skill and experience of the rehabilitation specialist, who will implement fully individualized approaches and exercises.

5

Recovery of daily activities or sport specific skills

The goal of the last phase of the rehabilitation pathway is the recovery of the everyday movements of a normally active life. For athletes, it is also the recovery of sport specific skills related to their sport. These should be fluid and precise, without uncertainty, fear, or mistakes.

This phase occurs on the field and is designed for all patients: from the football player aiming to return to the game to the average individual seeking to resume work and daily activities without limitations, pain, or fear of relapse.

The on-field rehabilitation program is not predetermined. It can be modified session by session, based on the individual patient’s responses, by the rehabilitation specialist in collaboration with the doctor.

The Isokinetic Innovation in Rehabilitation: The 5-Phase Approach

1

Resolution of pain, inflammation and acute symptoms

2

Recovery of range of motion and flexibility

3

Recovery of maximum strength and muscle endurance

4

Recovery of proprioception and coordination.

5

Recovery of daily activities or sport specific skills

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