Rehabilitation Following Lower Extremity Fracture

摘要

Each year an estimated 200,000 adolescents and adults below the age of 65 are hospitalized for the acute treatment of a lower extremity fracture (LEF). These injuries constitute the leading cause of all trauma hospitalizations in this age group. Although numerous reports have documented the range of short term complications and impairment following complex LEF, very few studies have examined the extent to which these impairments translate into long-term functional limitations and disability, including the inability to resume major role activities such as work and keeping house. Even less is known about the medical and non-medical factors that influence outcomes. To begin addressing these issues, a prospective longitudinal study of patients admitted to three Level-I trauma centers for treatment of unilateral LEF was designed. The overall objective of the study was to better document long-term functional consequences of LEF among young adults and to determine which medical, economic, vocational, social and psychological factors have a substantial effect on functional recovery and ability to return to work. The results of the study will be used to identify strategies for improving the rehabilitation process.