Physiotherapy for Fractures and Dislocations
Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for fractures and dislocations. Fracture are a result of excessive force applied to a bone resulting in complete or incomplete breaks. Dislocations are product of a one bone being dislodged from another from its usual position causing a separation. Physiotherapy administered in a timely fashion can reduce pain, symptoms, and return to baseline status.
Signs and symptoms:
- Pain with movement or immovable
- Soft tissue visible deformity
- Muscle spasms of surrounding tissue
- Swelling, bruising
- Reduced movement and range of motion of the joint
Causes:
- High impact activities/injuries such as sports or motor vehicle accidents
Risk
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies such as Calcium and vitamin D
- Previous injuries or dislocations
- Heredity
- Pathological conditions
Objectives of Physiotherapy
- Relieve pain
- Reduce muscle weakness, and atrophy
- Improve range of motion and mobility
- Strengthen surround tissue and muscle
Common Treatments
Fractures and dislocations are considered medical emergencies. Immediate treatment post fracture involves immobilization or fracture repair via surgery. A joint dislocation requires reducing the joint back to its neutral position. Once the medical emergency has been stabilized, physiotherapy is vital for return to baseline function.
Physiotherapy treatments include:
- Manual therapy
- Soft tissues release/stretching techniques
- Bracing/taping
- Pain relief modalities
- Ancillary muscle strength for stability
A skilled physiotherapist is an integral member of your road to recovery post fracture, dislocation, or surgery. It is important to be proactive in your care, so that the physiotherapy can quickly get you back to your activities of daily living.