Recovery and Rehabilitation After Open Fracture of Radius and Ulna

Open fracture of the radius and ulna?

Hello Dr.
Chen,
I had a car accident on October 19, which resulted in an open fracture of the radius and ulna.
I underwent surgery, and a plate and screws were inserted, followed by immobilization with a cast.
I had the cast removed yesterday, November 22, but my wrist and hand are very stiff and I cannot move them.

Do I need to go to a rehabilitation center? I need to work to earn money.
How long will it take to regain full mobility? Since the plate and screws are still in my arm, can I move freely? Will this type of fracture heal completely? What should I pay attention to during my recovery?
Thank you for your response, doctor.

Shangxin Tou de "KEN", 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/11/23

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

You have been one month post-surgery, and you should be able to perform some wrist activities now that the cast has been removed.
The joint may be a bit stiff, and rehabilitation is necessary to address this.
Typically, it takes three to six months to fully recover after surgery.
Avoid re-injury or lifting heavy objects.

Reply Date: 2005/11/23

More Info

Recovering from an open fracture of the radius and ulna, especially after surgical intervention with plates and screws, is a multifaceted process that requires careful management and rehabilitation. Given your recent experience with the accident on October 19 and subsequent surgery, it’s understandable that you have concerns about your recovery timeline, rehabilitation needs, and the potential for regaining full function.

Recovery Timeline
The recovery timeline for an open fracture can vary significantly based on several factors, including the severity of the fracture, the specific surgical technique used, your age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Generally, after the removal of the cast, which you mentioned occurred on November 22, you may begin to experience stiffness and limited range of motion in your wrist and elbow. This is a common occurrence as immobilization can lead to joint stiffness and muscle atrophy.

Typically, the initial healing phase for fractures can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, but full recovery, including regaining strength and range of motion, may take several months. It’s not unusual for patients to require 3 to 6 months of rehabilitation to return to pre-injury levels of function, especially if the fracture was complex or involved significant soft tissue damage.

Rehabilitation Needs
Yes, attending a rehabilitation center is highly recommended. A physical therapist can provide a structured rehabilitation program tailored to your specific needs. They will help you with exercises aimed at improving range of motion, strength, and functional mobility. Early rehabilitation is crucial to prevent stiffness and promote healing.
Your rehabilitation program may include:
1. Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and mobility exercises for the wrist and elbow to combat stiffness.

2. Strengthening Exercises: Gradually introducing resistance exercises to rebuild muscle strength around the affected area.

3. Functional Activities: Activities that mimic daily tasks to help you regain independence and confidence in using your arm.

Activity and Work Considerations
While you may feel eager to return to work, it’s essential to listen to your body and follow your healthcare provider's advice. Engaging in activities too soon can risk re-injury or complications. Depending on the nature of your job, you may need to modify your activities or take additional time off to ensure a safe return.

Freedom of Movement with Hardware
Regarding the plates and screws, they are typically stable and allow for some degree of movement. However, you should avoid high-impact activities or heavy lifting until cleared by your orthopedic surgeon. The hardware is designed to support the healing bone, but it’s essential to follow your surgeon's guidelines on activity levels.

Full Recovery Potential
Many patients with similar injuries can achieve a full recovery, but this is contingent on several factors, including the quality of the surgical repair, adherence to rehabilitation, and individual healing responses. While some may experience lingering stiffness or discomfort, most can return to their previous level of function.

Precautions During Recovery
During your recovery, consider the following precautions:
- Avoid High-Impact Activities: Steer clear of activities that could stress the healing bones or joints.

- Monitor for Signs of Complications: Be vigilant for signs of infection (redness, swelling, increased pain) or complications related to the hardware.

- Follow-Up Appointments: Keep all scheduled follow-up appointments with your orthopedic surgeon to monitor healing progress.

In summary, while the road to recovery from an open fracture of the radius and ulna can be challenging, with appropriate rehabilitation and care, many individuals can regain full function. It’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan that aligns with your recovery goals. Best wishes for a smooth and speedy recovery!

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