A Comprehensive Physiotherapy Rehabilitation for Lower Limb Amputation as a Consequence of Cannabis and Alcohol Dependency: A Case Report

Abstract

Chronic marijuana and alcohol consumption leads to many forms of physical and physiological deterioration in the human body, mainly affecting the neurological system. A ​​​​65-year-old male patient suffered from stroke with the involvement of middle cerebral artery of the left side. Nine years later, patient presented with gangrene due to a traumatic unhealed wound on his left leg. The patient was under the influence of alcohol when he was injured. The infection spread, causing peripheral arterial disease, which eventually led to the development of gangrene till mid-calf of the left leg, for which he was amputated. Above-knee amputation with a fish-mouth incision was performed. Physiotherapy management focused on prehension and grip exercises for right upper limb, strengthening of all the limb musculature, stump management, transfer training, gait training with walker/crutches and prosthesis, and home exercise program, retraining activities of daily living. This case study embodies a rehabilitation program for this patient who suffered from stroke followed by amputation of the left leg. It focuses on bringing the patient back to his near-normal life. Regular physiotherapy helped the patient build up confidence, helped in resolving his addictions, and provided individual structure management. We present a rare case of above-knee amputation secondary to complications of alcohol abuse where an extensive post-op care and elaborate physiotherapy program resulted in a successful recovery.