Bone fracture repair

Bone fracture repair is a medical procedure where the fragments of a broken bone are realigned and fixed into place using hardware such as pins, screws, and plates. Once the surgery is completed, the rehabilitation process is critical to regain strength, function, and mobility. At Excel Physical Therapy, we guide you through this rehabilitation journey, focusing on customized exercises and strategies to help you return to your daily activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Causes

Bone fractures can be caused by a variety of factors including:

• Traumatic injuries such as falls, sports injuries, or motor vehicle accidents
• Overuse or repetitive motion
• Conditions that weaken the bone, such as osteoporosis or certain types of cancer

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a bone fracture include severe pain, swelling, bruising, inability to move the affected area, and in severe cases, visible deformity of the affected bone.

Treatment and Physical Therapy

After bone fracture repair surgery, your physical therapy journey at Excel Physical Therapy will begin. Here are the stages you can expect:

1. Pain and Swelling Management: Initially, we will guide you in methods to reduce pain and swelling, which can include ice, compression, elevation, and gentle motion exercises.
2. Range of Motion Exercises: Early on, your therapist will help you engage in gentle exercises to improve movement and flexibility in the joint nearest the fracture.
3. Strengthening Exercises: As healing progresses, strengthening exercises for muscles surrounding the fracture site will be introduced. These exercises help to support the bone and accelerate healing.
4. Functional Training: Once you've regained some strength and mobility, your physical therapist will introduce functional exercises. These are designed to help you return to your normal activities and may mimic tasks you perform at home, work, or during your favorite hobbies.
5. Balance and Mobility Training: If your fracture has affected your balance or ability to walk, your therapist will guide you through exercises to improve these skills. This is especially important for lower limb fractures.
6. Education: Throughout your therapy sessions, your therapist will educate you about your injury, recovery process, and prevention strategies to avoid future fractures. They'll also advise you on home exercises and lifestyle modifications to support your recovery.