Care and mobility considerations
The immediate effects of a fractured bone may cause significant functional restrictions. In many cases, such restrictions are unlikely to persist beyond three months. This period allows for the majority of fractures to heal (unite) and for general physical recovery to take place.
- In a minority of cases, the fractured bones do not knit together (non-union) and recovery of function may be delayed. Surgery may be required to assist the healing process.
- Some fractures are complicated by infection. Established bony infection (osteomyelitis) may be very difficult to treat and result in longstanding disability. Such individuals may also be generally unwell.
- Delayed healing may also occur where the fractured bone has a single blood supply, such as the lower third of the tibia, and the neck of femur. In some cases a fracture may occur through a joint, damaging the joint structure. If possible, such fractures should be treated by operation.
- Secondary osteoarthritis often complicates a fracture through a joint, and full recovery of function may not occur. In such cases, care and/or mobility needs may occur.
Osteoporosis
From middle age onwards, bones gradually become less dense and are more liable to fracture. This is a normal part of the ageing process.
Osteoporosis is a condition where this process of bone thinning is greatly accelerated. Osteoporotic bones are brittle and are much more likely to fracture. The healing of osteoporotic fractures is not impaired, so any resultant disability may not last more than a few weeks or months. This is often the case in the younger person. However in the elderly, who have sustained repeated fractures and progressive collapse of the spine, no significant improvement in disability is likely.
For details of specific fractures:
Amended April 2011
