Recovering from a fracture requires time, rest and plenty of healing, whether the injury was severe enough for surgery or not. But too much rest could actually hinder the recovery process, as immobilization of the affected area can result in long-term mobility problems. Fortunately, orthopedic rehabilitation can help your injury heal effectively, allowing you to regain your independence and optimize your quality of life.

What is orthopedic rehab?

The goal of orthopedic rehab after a fracture is to help you heal faster and regain the function, mobility, and strength lost due to the injury, while restoring the ability to perform daily tasks, work tasks and leisure activities. Although individual treatment plans are customized to each patient, most orthopedic rehab programs involve physical therapy and occupational therapy, often supplemented by medication, transitional care, diet and nutritional support, and behavioral therapy. 

How orthopedic rehab helps your fracture heal faster

Restricting movement immediately following a fracture will ensure the injury isn’t exacerbated, but you shouldn’t keep the area immobile for the duration of the healing period. Regulated movement is better for the healing process because it increases blood flow to the injury site, delivering oxygen and nutrients necessary for repairing the injury. The movement also reduces the likelihood of forming blood clots, which can cause serious complications. Additionally, many orthopedic rehab programs include electrical, laser, and ultrasound therapies that help stimulate the rebuilding of bones.

How orthopedic rehab reduces pain and inflammation

Specialized exercises in an orthopedic rehab program will not only help your injury heal faster, but they can also help reduce pain and inflammation by strengthening the muscles around the injury, reducing built-up tension and stiffness, and releasing scar tissue that keeps muscles tight. Along with targeted movement, orthopedic rehab can include ultrasound, electrical stimulation, medication, and assistive devices that aid in the reduction of pain and inflammation over time.

How orthopedic rehab prevents weakness 

Immobility is not only harmful to the healing process, but it can also lead to weakened muscles and tissue breakdown around the injury site. Plus, many people with injuries tend to “favor” the opposite side of their injury—such as putting all their weight on the strong leg instead of the injured one—which creates a problematic strength imbalance that’s hard to reverse. Orthopedic rehab provides modifications and targeted exercises that can help maintain your body’s strength balance even if you’re unable to put weight on the injury site for a few weeks.

How orthopedic rehab can help you avoid surgery

Most fractures heal without the need for surgery, but for fractures that severely affect mobility—such as legs or hips—there is a risk of falling and worsening the injury, which could result in the need for surgery. Orthopedic rehab helps improve your strength, balance, and coordination, lowering the risk of re-injury and surgery.

How orthopedic rehab benefits mental health

Fractures can cause emotional and psychological distress, especially if the injury is severe. Studies also show that older patients are more susceptible to depression following a fracture, which can lead to poorer recovery outcomes. Fortunately, comprehensive orthopedic rehab programs often include regular counseling appointments that help patients develop coping and emotional regulation skills for the most effective recovery possible.

Better fracture recovery outcomes at Bella Vista Health Center

Early, effective rehabilitation programs provide better outcomes for fracture recovery by restoring function, decreasing the risk of disability, and encouraging independence. At Bella Vista Health Center, we offer customized therapy plans designed and facilitated by a team of compassionate medical experts who prioritize patient wellbeing. For more information about our orthopedic rehab programs or to schedule a tour of our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility, give us a call at (619) 399-7920 today.