From mobility challenges to osteoporosis, age-related changes can increase fracture risk and affect the body’s ability to heal. The short-term rehabilitation team at Avon Health Center is specially trained to help you rebuild strength, improve mobility and regain function after a fracture or surgery.
Depending on your specific injury, we’ll develop a personalized care plan that includes physical and occupational therapy, gait training, nutritional guidance and assistance with activities of daily living.
What Is a Fracture?
Fractures can occur when a sudden impact or repetitive stress exceeds the bone’s strength, resulting in a break. The greater or more direct the force, the higher the risk of a fracture.
Repetitive stress injuries from activities that place consistent strain on the bones can cause fractures over time. They are classified into two main types:
- Open Fracture: Also called a compound fracture, the bone breaks and punctures through the skin, increasing the risks of infection and other complications.
- Closed Fracture: Also called a simple fracture, the bone breaks but the skin remains intact, reducing the likelihood of infection.
Fractures are further classified as displaced, when the bone has moved out of alignment, or non-displaced, when the bone remains partially intact or aligned.
Treatment often involves wearing a splint, cast or brace while the bone heals. In more complex cases, surgery may be required to properly align and stabilize the fracture.
Causes and Symptoms of a Fracture
Fractures can result from car accidents, trauma, repetitive movements, poor form during exercise, physically demanding activities or age-related conditions. Osteoporosis, which can go undetected for years, weakens bone tissue and makes it more prone to fractures.
Symptoms of a fracture may include:
- Sharp, sudden pain at the injury site
- Swelling, redness, bruising or tenderness
- Warmth around the injured area
- Visible deformity or a noticeable bump
- Difficulty moving or using the affected limb or joint
Treating a Fracture
If you suspect a fracture, seek medical care immediately to immobilize the joint and begin proper treatment. After diagnosis, treatment options for a fracture may include:
- Immobilization: Using a splint, cast or brace to keep the bones aligned, limit joint movement and reduce swelling for better healing.
- Medication: Pain relievers to manage discomfort and minimize swelling.
- Traction: A system of pulleys and weights used to gently stretch muscles and tendons, promoting proper bone alignment and healing.
- Surgery: For open fractures, surgery with fixation devices like pins, wires or screws may be necessary to restore alignment. These devices are removed once the bone has fully healed.
- Footwear: Using a fracture boot or similar device to minimize pressure on the foot and ankle during recovery.
Rehabilitation After a Fracture
Once a cast, brace or splint is removed, patients may experience muscle atrophy and stiffness. Rehabilitation focuses on rebuilding strength, restoring mobility and enhancing function in the affected area. Our team can help you:
- Learn how to use assistive devices, such as crutches or a cane, to prevent putting weight on the injured area.
- Perform targeted exercises to improve muscle strength, range of motion and coordination, while also reducing future falls.
- Improve posture and balance, which promotes healing and helps prevent future fractures.
Planning fracture recovery for yourself or a loved one?
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