Many adults and children in Narela get fractures. Bandage/ cast is the typical treatment used to bring the fractured bone back to its original state. But what happens after the broken bone is back in its place?
Most people do not know that opting for physiotherapy is one of the steps involved in fracture recovery.
When the fractured body part is removed from the bandage/cast, you must ensure that your recovery is fully completed with physiotherapy and not kept half-healed.
Let us understand in detail why physiotherapy is essential after a fracture.
Why is physiotherapy important after a fracture?
Several fractures recover within six weeks. However, that is just half of the issue. Unfortunately, when you have pressure placed through your body to fracture a bone, many other soft tissues get damaged during the process.
Also, the immobilization due to plasters will give you joint stiffness and muscle weakness. Physiotherapy rehab is needed to return the muscle function and strength.
The therapy form will vary depending upon the type of fracture you had. Generally, therapy starts after the removal of the cast.
Strengthening and aggressive motion range exercises normally must wait till the bone recovers. Your physiotherapist in Narela may also assess the need, recommend, and train you to utilize assistive devices in the recovery. Gait training is also performed whenever needed.
Now that you know the importance of physiotherapy, let us discuss when you should start the therapy.
When should you start physiotherapy after a fracture?
Doctors often recommend Physiotherapy to make the healing process fast once your bone is aligned. Some physiotherapy techniques help in strengthening the bone and the nearby tissues, including:
- Physiotherapy manipulation
- Joint mobilization exercises
With physiotherapy, your fractured bone will receive:
- Accelerated healing,
- Enhanced range of motion
- Decreased swelling and pain
For physiotherapy to be effective, you must remember to:
- Get treated at an early stage
- Make sure your specialist recommends you home exercises.
Your physiotherapist will be involved in various stages of the recovery period.
Phase 1: physiotherapy in the hospital
If the fracture is handled conservatively or surgically, your specialist may visit you during the first days itself.
A physiotherapist can assist you in:
- Knowing the weight-bearing restrictions
- Teaching you the way to utilize the assistive devices, including a crutch, walker, or cane for walking, climbing up and down the stairs
- Strengthening and using other limbs' muscles (that the fracture did not affect) to bear the fractured part's load.
Phase 2: physiotherapy at home
Homecare physiotherapy is for individuals who cannot leave home because of an injury. A physiotherapist can assist you in mastering the use of your assister device in your home.
You may also perform exercises to enhance your complete endurance and strengthen the muscle surrounding the fracture.
In your home, the physiotherapist can also assess your home environment and make suggestions to make small adjustments. It will help you move safely and efficiently inside your house.
Phase 3: physiotherapy in the clinic
Your specialist may refer you to a physiotherapy clinic in Narela after you have recovered enough to travel from your home.
This often occurs after the cast is removed, and you can move the section around the fracture (four-eight weeks). After a detailed assessment, your therapist will devise a treatment plan to:
- Decrease pain (if present),
- Enhance your mobility, strength
- Make you functionally independent.
Physiotherapy following a fracture usually focuses on removing the immobilization's negative effects. Your physiotherapist will utilize a combination of methods and treatment tools to address your issues:
- Modalities or physical agents may be utilized to help decrease pain and swelling.
- Electrical stimulation (TENS) may also be used for better muscle recruitment.
- Weights, resistance bands, and other tools may be utilized to provide better mobility and strength to the muscles and joints within and surrounding the fracture.
- Mobilization and scar massage can help decrease scar adhesion following surgical intervention.
All the above procedures with the home exercise program will get you back to your normal function.
How long do you have to do physical therapy for a broken bone?
Every fracture varies, and the healing rate may differ from person to person. A fracture usually heels in about six to eight weeks, and you should become normal within twelve weeks of a fracture.
Physiotherapy rehabilitation generally takes about six to eight weeks. However, your program may be slightly longer or shorter based on your case.
Physiotherapy has a vital role in rehabilitation after a fracture. If you do not go for physiotherapy, you might end up with weak upper or lower limbs and painful or stiff joints even though the fracture has healed.