A fracture can occur at any age and likely will require a period of immobilization or surgical correction. But once the bone is healed, you should be ready to return to your favorite activities, right? Well, this may not be the case as there are typically remaining limitations after the healing process is complete.
Let’s consider one of the most common fractures; a collarbone fracture. The clavicle is one of several bones that make up the shoulder girdle. When the clavicle is broken, either surgical intervention to correctly set the bone and/or use of a sling will be required for proper healing. Regardless of the severity of the fracture, a period of immobilization will be necessary. While this immobilization and limited use of the arm is beneficial to allow proper healing of the bone, it can contribute to limited mobility of the shoulder. Once the healing process is complete, there is often joint stiffness, limited range of motion, pain with end range motion, and weakness in the arm from limited use over a prolonged period. These deficits contribute to functional limitations such as difficulty with activities of daily living and recreational activities.
A physical therapist is able to identify the limitations specific to each individual and use a combination of exercises, manual therapy and pain management techniques to improve function of the joint. Then, they can prescribe interventions to ensure safe progression to simulate the demands placed on the joint during recreational activities. While the specific interventions will vary, the rehabilitation process is similar regardless of which bone is fractured. If adequate care is not taken to address any remaining deficits, limitations can persist over the course of months or years.
If you have suffered a fracture, physical therapy is your next step towards returning to your favorite activities. Physical therapy can help to reduce your pain, improve your function, and ensure that you are ready to get back to the things you enjoy without limitations. Call Respire Physical Therapy at 703-671-1871 or click here to schedule an appointment with one of our Physical Therapists to get back to the activities you love! 
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