Physio Advice...

ScubaDave · 11-05-2009, 07:54 PM

Folks,

I've not been on the boards for some time due to my work schedule - just not enough time in the day to get on here. I currently live and work in Bangkok, Thailand. If there are any qualified physiotherapists out there, I'd like your comments on the following.

About four weeks ago, I suffered a break in the neck of the 5th metacarpal - the bone was about 70 degrees off, and required two k-wires to fix. The k-wires were removed after 3 weeks, and range of motion of the joint is not bad...about where I would expect. There is still some stiffness in the joint, and residual inflammation. There also is a little bit of pain remaining on the insertion sites for the k-wires. My orthopedist told me yesterday that I should not lift for another 8 weeks. Another doctor told me that at a certain point, I should begin applying non destabilizing pressure to the joint to assist with recovery.

I'm definitely a not a "sit around and wait" kinda guy, and although I recognize that recovery has to be taken with due care and pragmatism, I'm also want to ensure that I'm helping the joint heal as I can, but also limiting the loss of strength in my other upper body muscle groups.

Any thoughts by any qualified folks out there?

Thanks,

Dave

gbg · 11-07-2009, 09:41 AM

I would stay clear of lifting till all the inflammation is gone and your full ROM is back without pain.

When you do start lifting again watch your grip work go lighter so there is not a need for heavy or prolonged gripping.

Athena · 11-19-2009, 07:12 AM

In my Medical Exercise Specialist program, our PhD set our protocols to a minimum of 12 weeks post rehab for injuries and surgeries such as this, plus minimal swelling and full ROM (if that were to be obtained after the injury since some injuries and surgeries provide less than standard ROM after hearling). The first phase for you would be, yes, non-destabilizing pressure to strengthen the joint and prepare it for future stress. With a doctor's permission you could start that (according to our protocols) prior to the 12 week timeframe was completed.