Life Care Center of Bridgeton helps arthritis patient walk again

David Neubauer acquired septic arthritis in his right knee, leading to swelling, pain and the inability to walk.

To recover, Neubauer came to Life Care Center of Bridgeton, Missouri, on Dec. 30, 2016. When he arrived, he needed extensive assistance to stand, get dressed or get from one surface to another (such as from his bed to a wheelchair). He needed help getting around in the wheelchair. He was also on antibiotics and had an infection specialist following his case.

Physical and occupational therapists worked with Neubauer to increase his strength, balance and range of motion, as well as to help him take care of himself again in his daily activities at home. A variety of exercises – from seated and lying down to standing – got him moving again. Therapists focused on his quadriceps muscle, which had been primarily affected, as well as his upper body so that he could use his arms more to support his weight while using a walker.

On April 8, 2017, Neubauer returned to his independent living community. He was independent in all his mobility except walking, for which he simply required supervision, and his activities of daily living, for which he only needed someone nearby while he bathed.

"David worked extremely hard during his therapy," said Nick Hennicke, physical therapist.

"He always had a story to entertain us all," added Donna Rosacker, occupational therapist.