A fracture is not only painful and
debilitating, but can also put you out of action for several weeks. The
initial treatment of plaster/sling and ice/painkillers is all well and
good, but when the joint is kept in the same position for long periods of time and not being used, the muscles will start to become weak.
Taking the example of a clavicular fracture (broken collarbone), here are a few guidelines to get your shoulder moving and keep the muscles active whilst still in the early stages:
Taking the example of a clavicular fracture (broken collarbone), here are a few guidelines to get your shoulder moving and keep the muscles active whilst still in the early stages:
- Use your sling most of the time for at least the first 2 weeks, removing it 4-5 times a day to perform pendulum exercises as outlined below
- Do not elevate the injured arm above 90 degrees
- Do not lift any object over 1-2 pound for the first few weeks
- Perform gentle pendulum exercises (see image below) - bend at the
waist so that your arm is hanging down (hold on to chair or table for
support). Gently rock your body weight from left to right or in a
circular motion and let your arm swing. Approx 5 times in each direction
- 4-5 times a day.
Please note: These are just guidelines, and
will vary between patients so please make an appointment to discuss
individual cases or for a more personalised and comprehensive treatment
programme.
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