What is an Intramedullary Nail?
To align the fractured bones and provide optimal healing support,
the orthopaedic surgeon makes a small incision through the skin and
tissue closest to one end of the broken bones. The surgeon then
inserts a small rod-like nail device into the hollow center of the
bone, called the medullary cavity. The intramedullary nail forms a
self-contained internal splint to stabilize the fracture. This is
often done for fractures of the tibia, femur, and humerus .
Potential Advantages of the Intramedullary Nail
Provides durable, strong and flexible support.
Allows more exact alignment of the fractured bones for faster
healing and may lead to earlier weightbearing.
May lead to earlier joint motion for reduced stiffness.
Encourages more natural-like motion in uninjured muscles and
neighboring joints.
How does physical therapy help to heal?
Since motion and muscle strength play an important role in fracture
healing, the right exercises can significantly aid in your
recovery. Of course, the fracture itself may hinder the use of your
injured limb. Your doctor’s choice of an intramedullary nail gives
you the potential to begin moving earlier than treatment with an
external cast or brace.
