Back Pain After a Fall: Rehabilitation Insights for Seniors

Q: Back Pain After a Fall: Rehabilitation Insights for Seniors

Hello, sir： Thank you for your inquiry. <br>I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions： <br>1. <br>To answer your question, the indication for Fosamax (Alendronate) is osteoporosis. <br>It can enhance the sensitivity of estrogen receptors in wo

Lower back pain?

My mother slipped and fell two weeks ago, suffering severe injuries to her back and lower back.
She is a 72-year-old elderly woman.
After the fall, she visited a rehabilitation department where she received heat therapy and electrical stimulation, and was prescribed Fusanus (Fusain).
Could you please explain what conditions are indicated by the use of Fusanus? Should she continue with rehabilitation? Thank you!

Ke Yu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/01/25

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation

Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to respond to your question and provide the following suggestions:
1.
To answer your question, the indication for Fosamax (Alendronate) is osteoporosis.
It can enhance the sensitivity of estrogen receptors in women and promote calcium absorption.

2.
Medication and rehabilitation are complementary.
Elderly individuals who have fallen should be thoroughly examined, not only for back injuries but also for potential thigh injuries and any symptoms of sciatica.
It is important to discuss these issues with a rehabilitation physician, especially if there is a need for lumbar spine X-rays to check for compression fractures, which require further management to prevent complications.

Finally, I wish you peace and happiness!

Reply Date: 2008/01/25

More Info

After a fall, especially in seniors, back pain can be a significant concern. Your mother’s situation, having sustained a serious injury at the age of 72, requires careful management and rehabilitation to ensure her recovery and prevent further complications.

Firstly, the medication your mother has been prescribed, Fexofenadine (often referred to as "福善美"), is an antihistamine primarily used to treat allergic symptoms. However, it is not typically indicated for pain management or musculoskeletal injuries. If she is taking this medication, it may be for an unrelated allergy issue or perhaps as a precaution against any allergic reactions that could arise from other medications or treatments she is receiving. It is essential to clarify with her healthcare provider why this specific medication was prescribed in the context of her back pain.

Regarding her rehabilitation, it is crucial to continue physical therapy after a fall. The initial treatments of heat therapy and electrical stimulation can help alleviate pain and promote healing. However, a comprehensive rehabilitation program should include more than just these modalities. Here are some insights into what her rehabilitation should ideally involve:
1. Assessment: A thorough evaluation by a physical therapist is essential. They can assess her range of motion, strength, and pain levels to tailor a rehabilitation program that meets her specific needs.

2. Strengthening Exercises: As seniors often experience muscle weakness, especially after an injury, a rehabilitation program should include exercises to strengthen the core, back, and leg muscles. This can help provide better support for the spine and reduce pain.

3. Flexibility and Mobility Training: Gentle stretching exercises can improve flexibility and help maintain mobility. This is particularly important for seniors to prevent stiffness and enhance their ability to perform daily activities.

4. Balance Training: Falls are a common concern in the elderly, and incorporating balance training into her rehabilitation can help reduce the risk of future falls. This might include exercises that improve stability and coordination.

5. Pain Management Techniques: In addition to the initial treatments she has received, other pain management strategies may be beneficial. These can include guided imagery, relaxation techniques, or even acupuncture, depending on her preferences and what her healthcare provider recommends.

6. Education: Educating her about body mechanics and safe movement strategies can empower her to move safely and reduce the risk of re-injury. This includes how to get up from a fall, how to sit and stand safely, and how to use assistive devices if necessary.

7. Regular Follow-ups: Continuous follow-up with her healthcare provider is essential to monitor her progress and make any necessary adjustments to her rehabilitation plan. If her pain persists or worsens, further imaging studies or evaluations may be warranted to rule out any serious underlying issues, such as fractures or spinal injuries.

In conclusion, your mother should definitely continue with rehabilitation, as it plays a vital role in her recovery process. It is also important to have open communication with her healthcare providers to ensure that her treatment plan is appropriate for her condition and that any medications prescribed are relevant to her current health status. If there are any concerns about the medications or the rehabilitation approach, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further clarification from her medical team.

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