The Importance of Physical Therapy for Healing a Sternal Fracture

Have you recently experienced a sternal fracture? If so, you're likely aware of the debilitating pain and discomfort that can come with it. Fortunately, physical therapy has proven to be an effective tool for healing this type of injury. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of physical therapy in recovering from a sternal fracture and how it can help you get back to your everyday life. Whether you're an athlete or simply looking to improve your quality of life, understanding the benefits of physical therapy is crucial to achieving success on your road to recovery. So let's dive into why physical therapy is essential for those who have experienced a sternal fracture!

What is a sternal fracture?

A sternal fracture is a break in the breastbone, the large bone that runs down the center of your chest. A sternal fracture can be caused by a fall, a car accident, or other trauma to your chest. Symptoms of a sternal fracture include pain and tenderness in your chest, bruising, and difficulty breathing. 

Physical therapy is an important part of treatment for a sternal fracture. Physical therapy can help you regain strength and mobility in your chest and upper body. It can also help relieve pain and improve your quality of life. Your physical therapist will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.

How is a sternal fracture caused?

A sternal fracture can be caused by a variety of accidents or trauma, such as a car accident, a fall, or a direct blow to the chest. The most common cause of a sternal fracture is motor vehicle collision; in fact, up to 50% of all sternal fractures are the result of car accidents. Sternal fractures can also occur from other high-impact activities such as contact sports, skiing, and bicycling accidents.

What are the symptoms of a sternal fracture?

A sternal fracture is a break in the breastbone, and symptoms include pain and tenderness in the chest, bruising and swelling, and difficulty breathing. The pain may be worse with coughing or deep breathing, and there may also be a grating or clicking sensation when moving the chest. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and pain medication, as well as physical therapy to help improve range of motion and prevent stiffness.

How is a sternal fracture treated?

Treatment for a sternal fracture typically involves a combination of rest, ice, and pain medication. In some cases, a surgical procedure may be necessary to repair the fracture. Physical therapy can play an important role in the healing process by helping to reduce pain and swelling, increase range of motion, and improve strength and flexibility.

Physical therapy for Sternum fractures

A sternum fracture is a serious injury that can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. While the best course of treatment is typically rest and ice, physical therapy can also be extremely beneficial in helping the patient to recover.

Physical therapy for sternum fractures typically focuses on range of motion exercises and strengthening the muscles around the injury. This helps to support the sternum as it heals and also prevents further injuries from occurring. Additionally, physical therapy can help to manage pain and improve overall mobility.

Conclusion

Physical therapy is an invaluable tool in the healing process of a sternal fracture. It can help to reduce pain and speed up recovery time, but it’s important to know that each individual’s needs when it comes to physical therapy may be different. With proper guidance from a physical therapist, you can ensure that your rehab program will be tailored specifically for your condition and goals so that you can heal as quickly and safely as possible.