How to Prevent Walking Issues After an Open Fracture in Seniors

Q: How to Prevent Walking Issues After an Open Fracture in Seniors

Hello, Miss： Thank you for your inquiry. <br>I would like to respond to your questions and provide the following suggestions： <br>1. <br>Generally speaking, about three days after surgery, you can request a consultation with the rehabilitation department from your attending physi

Fracture

Hello Doctor: My mother is 67 years old.
Yesterday, on November 10th, she fell off her motorcycle and sustained an open fracture in her left leg.
She underwent emergency surgery and is currently hospitalized for recovery.
She is very concerned about how this will affect her ability to walk in the future.
What can be done to prevent this? Thank you!

Niko, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/11/11

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation

Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to respond to your questions and provide the following suggestions:
1.
Generally speaking, about three days after surgery, you can request a consultation with the rehabilitation department from your attending physician to initiate rehabilitation early.

2.
If the surgical wound is clean, laser therapy can be applied in rehabilitation to promote healing, and patients can be taught positioning techniques and isometric exercises, as well as massage and other movements to assist recovery as soon as possible.

3.
After discharge, you can actively pursue rehabilitation therapy at the rehabilitation department.

Finally, I wish you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2007/11/11

More Info

To prevent walking issues after an open fracture, especially in seniors like your mother, it is essential to follow a comprehensive approach that includes medical care, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments. Here are some key strategies to consider:
1. Immediate Medical Care: After an open fracture, prompt medical attention is crucial. Your mother has already undergone surgery, which is a positive step. The surgical team will ensure that the fracture is properly stabilized, and any potential infection is managed.

2. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits with her orthopedic surgeon are vital. These appointments will allow the doctor to monitor the healing process through X-rays and physical examinations. It is essential to follow the doctor's advice regarding weight-bearing activities and mobility.

3. Physical Rehabilitation: Engaging in physical therapy as soon as it is safe to do so is critical. Typically, rehabilitation can begin within a few days post-surgery, depending on the doctor’s assessment. A physical therapist will create a personalized rehabilitation plan that may include:
- Range of Motion Exercises: These exercises help maintain flexibility in the joints and prevent stiffness.

- Strengthening Exercises: Gradually introducing weight-bearing exercises will help rebuild muscle strength around the fracture site.

- Balance Training: This is particularly important for seniors to prevent falls. Balance exercises can improve stability and confidence when walking.

4. Use of Assistive Devices: Initially, your mother may need to use crutches or a walker to assist with mobility. These devices can help her maintain balance and reduce the risk of falls while she regains strength and confidence in her leg.

5. Pain Management: Managing pain effectively is crucial for rehabilitation. If your mother experiences pain, it may hinder her ability to participate in physical therapy. Discuss pain management options with her healthcare provider, which may include medications or alternative therapies.

6. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone healing. Foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods can support bone health. Staying hydrated is also important for overall recovery.

7. Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol: If your mother smokes or consumes alcohol, it is advisable to quit or reduce these habits. Smoking can impair blood circulation and delay healing, while excessive alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to recover.

8. Gradual Return to Activities: Encourage your mother to gradually return to her daily activities as she gains strength. It is important to listen to her body and not rush the recovery process. She should avoid high-impact activities until cleared by her doctor.

9. Home Safety Modifications: To prevent falls at home, consider making modifications such as removing tripping hazards, installing grab bars in the bathroom, and ensuring adequate lighting in all areas.

10. Emotional Support: Recovery from a fracture can be emotionally challenging, especially for seniors. Providing emotional support and encouragement can help her stay positive and motivated throughout her rehabilitation journey.

In summary, preventing walking issues after an open fracture in seniors involves a combination of medical care, rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes. By following these strategies, your mother can enhance her recovery and maintain her mobility, ultimately improving her quality of life. Always consult with her healthcare team for personalized advice and recommendations tailored to her specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Complications After Open Fracture Surgery: A Patient's Concern

Hello, doctor. I have had an open fracture in my right calf for over three months now. At that time, both bones were broken. The larger bone was stabilized with a metal rod. Last week, I went for a follow-up appointment and had an X-ray. The doctor said both bones are slowly heal...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Be cautious before your fracture has healed, as walking too much or exerting yourself can potentially cause displacement of your current bone condition. If there is already a displacement, you should consult your physician to determine if a revision surgery is necessary. If the s...

Effective Rehabilitation Strategies for Seniors After a Fall

Hello Doctor: My elderly family member is in their eighties and fell over a month ago, landing on their buttocks. After being sent to the hospital for emergency treatment, it was found that there were no fractures. They later went to an orthopedic outpatient clinic for further ex...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Gradually increase standing and walking abilities. Start by practicing sitting in a chair and performing bending and straightening movements with the knees. As muscle strength improves, you will be able to stand up or walk.

Managing Pain After Knee Fracture Surgery in Seniors: Tips and Insights

Hello, my mother had a car accident in 2020 (at the age of 80) that resulted in fractures of the distal femur in her left leg and the proximal tibia near the knee in her right leg. She underwent surgery, which was successful, but she has been experiencing sharp pain at the surgic...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
If walking causes pain, an X-ray should be taken to check for any issues related to arthritis. If there is no pain, it may not be necessary to remove internal fixation devices. An X-ray can help determine the cause of the symptoms, allowing for targeted treatment.

Managing Complications After Hip Fracture Surgery in Elderly Patients

My mother is 90 years old and suffered a greater trochanter fracture due to a fall. After surgery, her leg became swollen like an elephant's leg. Subsequently, she received treatment from a vascular specialist to remove blood clots, which helped reduce the swelling in her th...

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Hello: It is not uncommon for osteoporosis to cause the displacement of metal pins clinically. If the fracture reduction is acceptable, some cases can be assisted with plaster casting. However, if the pattern of bone displacement is unacceptable, it is necessary to re-lay the pat...