Mobility, Remobilisation, Exercise and Prevention of the Complications of Stasis

Abstract

The positive effects of physical activity on physical and mental health are well known and include weight control, improved balance, flexibility, strength, anxiety reduction and protection from ill health, as well as contributing to independent living and preventing falls. Being mobile and able to self-care and fear of falling are important to patients. A central goal of nursing care following fragility fracture is to maximise mobility. Individual patient goals are determined by their pre-fracture mobility and functional status. Recovery is often compromised for those with limited pre-fracture activity and cognitive impairment, low functional levels postoperatively, older age, polypharmacy, comorbidities, depression, poor nutritional status, lack of social support and not living independently. Many patients never recover their previous level of function after a fragility fracture, and there is significant risk of institutionalisation, new fractures, disability and loss of independence.