Have you recently suffered a broken bone or fracture? Do you or your family have a history of Osteoporosis? If you have suffered a bone fracture, you may benefit from physical therapy. In this article, we will go over the various types of fractures and the rehabilitation process.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by low bone density (thickness of the bone), decreased bone strength, and a change in the bone structure. This significantly increases risk of fracture. The normal bone structure becomes thinner and the bone loses its ability to withstand the typical forces that are applied in everyday living. Fractures from low bone density and osteoporosis can be serious, causing pain and affecting quality of life.
Types of Fractures:
Which Type of Fracture Requires Surgery?
Some bone fractures are minor with just a hairline fissure on the bone while other fractures result in the bone being broken into two or more pieces. The type of fracture will determine if surgery is required.
The goal of surgery is to allow the bone to heal and fuse back together. This is often accomplished by immobilizing the bone for several months using a cast or splint. The more severe the fracture, the more likely surgery is required.
Typically, if the fracture causes the bone to be displaced or comminuted, it will require a surgical repair to grow back together and safely support your body weight. Surgical repair requires the use of metal rods, screws, and plates to align the bone while it heals.
Physical Therapy After a Fracture
The goal of physical therapy is to restore full range of motion and functionality. Immobilization resulting from casts and splints can contribute to joint stiffness and muscle weakness. Physical therapists can help accelerate the healing process by properly moving/strengthening surrounding tissues, joints, and muscles, even before the fracture has healed.
If you have suffered a Bone Fracture and are experiencing pain and stiffness, Respire Physical Therapy can help you regain your strength. Physical therapists can prescribe Individualized Exercises that can improve your Bone density and strengthen the motions that are limited. Call us today at 703-671-1871 to request an evaluation with a Physical Therapist!
Tags: bone fracture, fracture, Physical Therapy, physical therapist, arlingtonva, alexandriava, springfieldva, fallschurchva
