Rehabilitation

Physical therapy and/or occupational therapy may be needed after a fracture. Fractures may take 6-12 months to fully heal, and rehabilitation should be continued for as long as you continue to improve.

• Occupational therapists help people relearn how to do daily activities so they can be as independent as possible. Activities include eating, dressing, and bathing.
• Physical therapists help people stand, walk, and sit comfortably. 

If you have had a hip replacement, or if your fractures are in your backbone, you will probably:

• Be encouraged to stand up, put your full weight on the injured areas and walk with a walker within a few days of your injury and/or surgery. This will help avoid problems, such as blood clots and delirium. 
• Have a physical therapist who teaches safe use of a walker. People may need this aid for 6-12 weeks. After the walker, a cane will likely be necessary. In time, walking without an aid will be possible for those who were able to before their fracture.
• Receive physical therapy at least once a day while in the hospital. This is known to help speed recovery and can lead to an earlier exit from the hospital.

Reduce Risk Factors

Fractures that come from a fall mean that a healthcare professional needs to check your walking ability, balance, vision, hearing, and other things that can cause a fall. To reduce your fall and fracture risk:

• Step up your physical activity. Do weight-bearing exercises such as walking at least 5 times per week for 30 minutes each time. Start gradually.
• Do exercises to improve your balance (such as Tai Chi classes).
• Have your blood pressure checked if you feel dizzy or lightheaded when you stand up after sitting or lying down.
• Take calcium (1,200-1,500 mg) and vitamin D (800- 2000 IU) daily.
• Fix any tripping hazards in your home like loose rugs, wires, or dark stairways.
• Stop smoking if you smoke and stay away from alcohol and sleep medications. 
• Get a healthcare professional to review medications. Fall risks increases in older adults who take more than 3 or 4 medications of any type.
• Be careful after starting a new medication or when the amount of an existing medication increases.

Complications

Spending too much time in bed after a fracture increases risk of:

• Blood clots, especially for older adults and people with cancer, obesity, or hip fractures/replacements. Blood thinners may be necessary.
• Pneumonia.
• Mental confusion.
• Bed sores.

Caregiver and Family Assistance

Before leaving the hospital, your healthcare team needs to evaluate your home to make sure that you will be able to get the care you need. Any changes to your furniture (such as raised seating or bathing accommodations) needs to be completed. You may need rehabilitation at a nursing home until you can be on your own at home.

Last Updated December 2022