Upper Extremity
Callus formation: 2-3 weeks Union: 4-6 weeks
Lower Extremity
Callus formation: 2-3 weeks Union: 8-12 weeks Union has indications for weight bearing
Check for MD orders prior to mobilizing Terms: Stable: clinical union vs. Unstable
Displaced: long axis does not align
Open vs....
So your patient has one upper extremity, or even worse, bilateral non-weightbearing precautions, likely due to distal radius fracture(s). Does this mean OT cannot do any activities with them? Is everything not attempted for safety in your initial evaluation? In...
Etiology
Most common mechanism of injury is a fall on an outstretched hand. The wrist usually
lands in extension and the forearm in pronation. Facts Most common injury to the wrist
May result in limited wrist flexion, extension, forearm pronation & supination
...
Background A sling acts as an immobilization device.
A fracture cannot heal unless it is prevented from moving.
Immobilization also helps the bone fragments fuse together by keeping them in the correct position.
Slings should be worn at all...
Before the Stitches & Staples Come Out Educate on positioning in bed and sitting. No pillows under knees.
Promote stretching in prone position if tolerable (no low back pain).
Provide sitting support for wheelchair - residual limb supports.
Educate...
Amputation is identified by which joint or long bone has been amputated. Above knee (AKA): transfemoral
Below knee (BKA): transtibial
Below ankle: transmetatarsal
Above elbow: transhumeral
Below elbow: transradial
Below wrist: transmetacarpal Disarticulation: across a joint such as hip, wrist,...
Background on Rib Fractures Ribs protect the lungs as they contract/expand with breathing. Rib Fracture Mechanism Typically from a blow to the chest
General population: motor vehicle accidents
Children's bones bend easily and can often withstand breaks during a blow...
