Los Altos, CA
Physical therapy can help with most fractures, but it is especially important if you have suffered a fracture of the femur, which runs from the hip to the knee. This incredibly strong bone typically requires significant force or direct trauma to break.
A femoral fracture often requires surgery to place the bones back into position. Nonsurgical treatment usually involves holding the pieces together, so that the bone can properly heal.
Depending on your unique situation, your doctor may use
• a metal plate with screws
• a rod through the bone or
• metal pins and a frame
Healing, however, does not simply entail removal of the surgically implanted aids and a resumption of your normal activities. A well-designed program of physical therapy can ensure a slow, safe and successful process of rehabilitation. A failure to heal properly can worsen the condition and delay your mobility.
Once your doctor has given approval, you can begin range-of-motion and strengthening exercises to improve conditioning of the entire area. Stretching exercises will help restore and maintain fluidity and motion. You will perform some exercises with our assistance while others can be performed at home.
We can develop a realistic and manageable rehabilitation program for you. We will also let you know when it is safe to return to sports and similar intense activities. Gradually, you will experience a successful recovery from surgery for your femoral fracture.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kim Gladfelter, MPT, OCS, FAAOMPT
Women's Health Physical Therapy Specialist at PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness
Kim Gladfelter is a physical therapist, Pilates instructor, educator, author, and co-founder of PhysioFit Physical Therapy & Wellness. She is known as a keen, well-rounded expert of healing through movement and women’s health specialist in the Silicon Valley area.
Kim has helped men and women of all ages to stay active and feel their best. She also writes about managing pain in her health columns, blogs and the local Los Altos Town Crier newspaper as well as reaches out to the local community, support groups, schools, libraries, and sports centers to advise and educate on body awareness and therapeutic exercise.