Rehabilitation and the role of the physical therapist.

Severe hemophilia patients suffer from joint and muscle bleeds. If not treated at once, they may cause chronic synovitis and arthropathy of joints and wasting and contractures of muscles. These impairments may cause disabilities and handicaps in daily life. Next to replacement therapy, physical therapy is also important: active muscle strengthening exercises, prevention and treatment of contractures and pain, functional training, physiotechnical applications. Furthermore, exercises and sports to prevent problems of the musculoskeletal system are mentioned. Indications for the use of orthotics and special shoes are described.