VASCULAR TRAUMA WITH RADIAL ARTERY INJURY AND MEDIAN NERVE DAMAGE IN THE LEFT UPPER LIMB: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Workplace accidents frequently cause vascular and nerve injuries in the upper limb, especially among manual laborers. This study is relevant due to the importance of more broadly exploring the role of physiotherapy in the recovery of patients with combined vascular and nerve injuries, seeking to identify effective approaches that promote the restoration of function and the return to social and professional activities. The general objective is to evaluate the physiotherapeutic rehabilitation of a patient who suffered a vascular trauma during his work activity, with obstruction of the radial artery and damage to the median nerve in the left upper limb. Clinical and functional improvement throughout the treatment carried out during the mandatory supervised internship could be monitored and experienced. This paper is a Case Study of the patient S.G.A, who underwent surgical treatment after suffering a severe work-related accident and was subsequently referred for physiotherapy rehabilitation at the Teaching and Research Clinic in Physiotherapy of Iguaçu University, between 2024 and 2025. During this period, significant progress in limb functionality was observed, evidenced by improved extension movements and ulnar deviation in the context of the range of motion of the left wrist. On the other hand, flexion showed a slight decrease, and radial deviation was reduced. The physiotherapeutic management adopted was based on an individualized program, which included arthrokinematic kinesiotherapy exercises, joint mobilizations, active and resisted activities, as well as sensory stimuli. Specific techniques were also applied to minimize scar adhesions, and functional training practices were carried out aimed at recovering strength and manual dexterity. A significant increase in muscle strength was identified, evolving from grade 1, characterized by minimal contraction, to grade 4. Therefore, it is important to mention the remarkable progress observed in the recovery of muscle strength, the expansion of wrist and finger range of motion, as well as the reduction of edema and improvement in performing basic manual tasks.