Recovery from Leg and Wrist Fractures After a Car Accident

The car accident resulted in a femoral fracture and a comminuted fracture of the wrist?

In mid-March, I was involved in a car accident that resulted in a fracture of my left femur and a comminuted fracture of my right wrist.
I would like to ask the doctor some questions that the hospital has not answered for me.

1.
Is it normal that I cannot bend my left leg? I cannot fully flex my knee; is this because the bone has not healed yet? Currently, my left thigh is being treated with intramedullary nails.
Is it possible to recover enough to walk within six months? Should I be actively moving to prevent atrophy? Once the nails are removed, will I be able to walk immediately, or will there be a recovery period? How long does it typically take to remove the nails?
2.
My right wrist is currently stabilized with a splint and cast.
The last doctor mentioned that surgery might not be necessary, but it could still be required.
What does this mean? Would it involve removing the fragmented bone?
3.
With my injuries, is it possible to return to the basketball court within a year? If not, how long might it take? I have many questions, and I appreciate your help, doctor.

Austin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/09

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Following medical advice, it will take approximately one to one and a half years for the left leg's poor bending to recover, and rehabilitation is necessary.
The removal of the metal screws will also occur in about one to one and a half years.

Reply Date: 2017/04/09

More Info

Recovering from leg and wrist fractures after a car accident can be a complex process, and it’s understandable that you have many questions regarding your condition. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Knee Flexibility and Bone Healing: It is not uncommon for individuals with a femur fracture to experience limited knee flexion during the recovery phase. This limitation can be due to several factors, including swelling, pain, and muscle stiffness. The presence of a metal rod (intramedullary nail) in your femur is intended to stabilize the bone while it heals, but it can also restrict movement temporarily. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s advice regarding rehabilitation exercises to promote flexibility and prevent muscle atrophy. Generally, after a femur fracture, patients can expect to regain the ability to walk within 3 to 6 months, but this timeline can vary based on individual healing rates and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. After the removal of the metal rod, you may still need some time to regain full strength and mobility, which can take several weeks to months.

2. Wrist Fracture Management: The use of a splint or cast for your wrist fracture indicates that your doctor is attempting to stabilize the area to allow for healing. The mention of possibly needing surgery later could mean that your doctor is monitoring the healing process to determine if the bones are aligning correctly. If the fracture is not healing properly or if there are loose fragments, surgery may be necessary to remove those fragments or to realign the bones. This decision typically depends on follow-up imaging studies, such as X-rays, to assess the healing progress.

3. Returning to Basketball: The timeline for returning to sports like basketball after significant injuries such as a femur and wrist fracture can vary greatly among individuals. Factors influencing recovery include the severity of the fractures, the effectiveness of rehabilitation, and your overall health. While some athletes may return to their sport within a year, others may take longer, especially if complications arise during the healing process. It’s crucial to listen to your body and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding when it is safe to resume high-impact activities.

In summary, recovery from fractures involves a multifaceted approach that includes pain management, physical therapy, and regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. It’s essential to engage in prescribed rehabilitation exercises to maintain mobility and strength, and to communicate openly with your healthcare team about your progress and any concerns you may have. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and help you set realistic goals for your recovery. Remember, patience and adherence to your rehabilitation plan are key components in achieving a successful recovery.

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