Broken bones are common injuries suffered by people of all walks of life, especially those who are physically active. The injury requires proper treatment to ensure the bones heal properly. Physical therapy is also needed to restore flexibility and strength in the injured area that may have been lost during the recovery process.
Bone Fractures
Bones are strong, but they will bend when excessive force is placed on them. If the force is too strong, bones will break. Fractures commonly occur from falls, athletic activities, car accidents or other trauma. Types of fractures include simple fractures, where the bone breaks in one place; compound fracture, where the bone breaks in several spots; and displaced fracture, when the bones have moved out of their normal alignment. If you suffer a broken bone, you may experience pain in the injured area, swelling, bruising, deformity, numbness and loss of motion. You should seek medical attention immediately.
Treatment
The first step in treating a broken bone is ensuring that the bones are in their proper location and then immobilizing the injured area. Immobilization allows the bones to heal properly in their normal alignment. This can be done several ways, most commonly with a fiberglass or plaster cast, although splints are also used for minor breaks. Occasionally surgery is needed to repair the break, particularly with compound or displaced fractures. During the operation, plates or screws will be used to align the bones and allow the to heal properly.
Physical Therapy
During your recovery, the muscles surrounding the injured area can become weak and tight. Therefore, physical therapy may be needed as part of your rehabilitation. The physical therapy will begin while the bone is immobilized and continue once the cast or splint is removed. It should start with gentle range of motion exercises to maintain or restore flexibility. Once the fracture has had some time to heal, you can begin weight-bearing exercises to help regain strength in the injured part of your body. A licensed therapist should supervise your physical therapy. Remember to complete your therapy in its entirety, even when you begin to feel better. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, exercises during and after the healing process are essential to help restore normal muscle strength, joint motion and flexibility.
Prognosis
Most broken bones need at least four weeks to heal, although severe breaks can take up to several months. However, when the bone does fully heal, there should not be any lingering effects. According to the University of Illinois Medical Center, bones are usually strong and fully functional after treatment and rehabilitation.
