Title
Physical Therapy Management for the Care of Persons with Bleeding Disorders
Authoring Organization
Publication Month/Year
May 2, 2023
Last Updated Month/Year
August 8, 2023
Supplemental Implementation Tools
Document Type
Guideline
Country of Publication
US
Document Objectives
The Medical and Scientific Advisory Council (MASAC) of the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF) has recommended that a physical therapist be a core team member of a Hemophilia Treatment Center (HTC) team in order to provide integrated, high quality, patient-centered, and comprehensive care of persons with congenital bleeding disorders. Furthermore, a comprehensive physical therapy evaluation must be conducted at regular intervals, especially for those individuals at risk of musculoskeletal complications from their bleeding disorder. The evaluation and assessment must be adapted to each specific patient and consider their medical or surgical history, activity levels, use of prophylaxis, history of hemarthrosis, and type and severity of bleeding disorder. The evaluation should include anticipatory guidance on activities and physical fitness throughout the lifespan. Additionally, appropriate treatment interventions should be developed and implemented based on evaluation findings. Consultation with community therapists is vital if services cannot be provided at the HTC. The physical therapist should also serve as an educational resource for patients, other providers, and the broader bleeding disorder community.
Inclusion Criteria
Male, Female, Adult, Older adult
Health Care Settings
Ambulatory, Outpatient
Intended Users
Nurse, nurse practitioner, physical therapist, physician, physician assistant
Scope
Management, Rehabilitation
Diseases/Conditions (MeSH)
D006467 - Hemophilia A, D002836 - Hemophilia B, D059825 - Physical Therapists, D026761 - Physical Therapy Specialty
Keywords
physical therapy, hemophilia, bleeding disorders, hemophilia a, hemophilia b, physical therapist