Fractures are a common injury that can cause significant pain, disability and loss of function. They often result from falls, sports injuries, or even osteoporosis. While surgery and immobilization may be necessary in some cases, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping people recover from fractures.
Physiotherapy for fractures typically involves a combination of exercises, manual therapy and other techniques to promote healing and restore movement and function. It can help to reduce pain and swelling, improve mobility, strengthen the affected area, and reduce the risk of future fractures.
The goals of physiotherapy for fractures may include:
- Reducing pain and swelling
- Improving mobility and flexibility
- Strengthening the affected area
- Improving balance and coordination
- Preventing future fractures
- Improving quality of life
In order to achieve these goals, a physiotherapist will design an individualized treatment plan that takes into account the type of fracture, the stage of healing, and the patient’s overall health and medical history. Treatment may involve:
- Gentle exercises to improve range of motion and flexibility
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to promote healing and improve muscle function
- Manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and improve mobility
- Balance and coordination exercises to reduce the risk of falls
- Education on proper body mechanics and injury prevention
- Use of assistive devices, such as crutches or braces, as needed
It’s important for patients to understand that physiotherapy for fractures is not just about pain relief, but also about helping to ensure a full and safe recovery. A physiotherapist will work with patients to set realistic goals and provide guidance and support throughout the rehabilitation process.
Keywords:
Fracture, Physiotherapy, Injury, Healing, Movement, Function, Surgery, Immobilization, Pain, Swelling, Mobility, Flexibility, Strength, Balance, Coordination, Prevention, Quality of Life, Treatment Plan, Gentle Exercises, Stretching, Manual Therapy, Body Mechanics, Injury Prevention, Assistive Devices.
References:
- Fractures. (n.d.). Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia. Retrieved from https://www.bcphysio.org/conditions-and-treatments/conditions/fractures
- Fracture Rehabilitation. (n.d.). American Physical Therapy Association. Retrieved from https://www.moveforwardpt.com/symptomsconditionsdetail.aspx?cid=12f2c1f5-c066-4798-8ad3-b75a5a0c542d
- Fracture Rehabilitation. (2019, May 30). OrthoInfo – AAOS. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/recover/fracture-rehabilitation/
- Physiotherapy for Fractures. (n.d.). Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Retrieved from https://www.csp.org.uk/public-patient/conditions-and-treatments/fractures