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Dealing with Fractures

 Since a person with a fracture is likely to be incapable of using the injured hand or leg for several weeks, he or she may need help with simple everyday activities. Caring for fractures in the arm involves helping the patient put on and remove slings, helping the individual with tasks which require the use of both hands. Helping the patient with physiotherapy exercises prescribed is an important part of patient care.

With physically active people who are immobilized due to a fracture of the hip or the thighbone, boredom may be a serious issue, which can lead to depression and irritability, particularly after the pain subsides. Keeping their spirits high is one of the jobs of the care giver. Among the elderly, care givers may encounter a fear of falling after a fracture and they need to be encouraged to use the affected limb gradually so that the muscles are strengthened. Dealing with fractures among the elderly requires a blend of patience and gentleness with firmness and encouragement to renew their confidence in their ability to use their limbs again without fear of pain or fall.

One very important fact to remember when dealing with a fracture is that it takes time to heal and due care should be taken during the entire recovery period. Broken bones heal naturally and doctors help the process by setting the broken bones in their natural position and immobilizing the area to allow the bone to mend itself. Good nutrition can facilitate better healing and appropriate physiotherapy can ensure that the patient recovers the full range of movement in an injured joint. Massages and exercises to strengthen bones and improve balance are a great help to those senior citizens who are recovering from hip fractures.