Understanding Your Fracture Care
Initial Treatment Phase
- Follow weight-bearing restrictions exactly as prescribed
- Keep cast/splint dry and clean
- Elevate affected limb above heart level when resting
- Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours (if no cast)
Pain Management
- Take prescribed medications as directed
- Monitor for signs of increased pain or numbness
- Use recommended non-pharmaceutical pain management techniques
Activity Guidelines
Permitted Activities:
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises for unaffected joints
- Prescribed physical therapy exercises
- Modified daily activities as approved by your physician
Restricted Activities:
- High-impact movements
- Activities that risk re-injury
- Unauthorized weight-bearing
Follow-up Care
Scheduled Appointments
- Week 1-2: Initial follow-up
- Weeks 4-6: Progress evaluation
- Week 8-12: Recovery assessment
Warning Signs
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain unrelieved by medication
- Numbness or tingling
- Cast feels too tight
- Skin color changes
- Unusual swelling
Recovery Milestones
Home Care Instructions
Daily Management
- Keep affected area clean and dry
- Perform prescribed exercises
- Monitor for complications
- Record progress and concerns
Return to Activities
- Follow graduated return protocol
- Begin with low-impact activities
- Increase intensity gradually
- Stop if pain occurs
Contact Information
Orthopedic Office: [Insert Phone]
Emergency: 911
After-hours Care: [Insert Phone]