Fracture Treatment and Rehabilitation

Fracture treatment typically involves three stages, aiming to realign and stabilize the bone, promote healing, and restore function.

I. Initial Stage: 0–2 Weeks Post-Fracture

Goals:

Realign and stabilize the fracture to prevent displacement.

Reduce pain, swelling, and inflammatory responses.

Prevent further injury and complications (e.g. infections, vascular or nerve damage).

Treatment Measures:

Fracture Reduction: Restore the anatomical alignment of the bone using manual or surgical methods.

Immobilization: Stabilize the fracture with casts, splints, or surgical internal fixation devices (e.g. plates, intramedullary nails).

Pain and Swelling Management: Use pain relievers, apply ice packs, or elevate the affected limb.

Monitoring for Complications: Regularly assess blood circulation, nerve function, and signs of infection.

II. Intermediate Stage: 2 Weeks to Complete Bone Healing

(Typically 6–12 weeks, depending on individual factors and fracture type)

Goals:

Promote bone healing.

Prevent muscle atrophy and joint stiffness.

Treatment Measures:

Maintain Immobilization: Ensure the fracture remains stable during the healing process.

Moderate Activity: Gradually introduce passive or active movements in nearby joints to avoid functional loss from prolonged immobilization.

Nutritional Support: Consume sufficient calcium, vitamin D, and protein to aid bone healing.

III. Late Stage: 3–6 Months Post-Fracture

Goals:

Restore muscle strength and joint flexibility, and regain normal activity levels.

Treatment Measures:

Strength, Balance, and Joint Coordination Training: Incorporate exercises for muscle strengthening, balance improvement, weight-bearing activities, and joint flexibility to reduce the risk of reinjury.

Functional Training: Gradually resume daily activities, work, and sports based on the patient’s condition.

Precautions

Individualized Treatment Plans: Follow a tailored plan devised by physicians and rehabilitation therapists.

Avoid Premature Weight-Bearing or Intense Activities: To prevent compromising the healing process.

With systematic treatment and rehabilitation, fracture patients can generally regain normal activity levels and achieve a good quality of life.