Skilled Nursing Care After Tibial Plateau Fracture and Infection
Ms. Farnswoth came to Thrive for Rebab and antibiotic therapy following recent hospitalization for tibial plateau fracture and wrist fracture, at which time was found to have MSSA bacteremia and UTI.
Prior to admission, Ms. Farnswoth lived at The Watercress, an assisted living facility in Pearland, Texas. She has had assistance from a longtime caregiver for complex living tasks (medication management, driving, meal preparation), but was able ambulate unlimited distances with the use of a walker and only required supervision during ADLs. At the time of check-in, Ms. Farnswoth was extremely weak and was unable to sit herself up in bed. During her initial evaluation, she complained of severe right elbow and right leg pain, was unable to ambulate, and was dependent on caregivers during ADLs. It should also be noted that she was partial weight bearing to the right upper extremity.
Understanding Rehabilitation After a Tibial Plateau Fracture
A tibial plateau fracture can significantly impact mobility, balance, and independence, especially for older adults. Because the injury affects the upper portion of the shinbone near the knee joint, patients often experience pain, weakness, and difficulty bearing weight after hospitalization. Recovery frequently requires skilled rehabilitation focused on improving strength, coordination, mobility, and overall safety during movement.
“My therapists could not have been better. I once overheard someone in the gym say, she is not walking – she is running! You would have thought my therapists were getting me ready for the Olympics.”
-Ms. Farnswoth
The Importance of Skilled Nursing and Therapy Services
Many patients benefit from skilled nursing rehabilitation services that provide both medical support and personalized therapy. In cases involving infections such as MSSA bacteremia or urinary tract infections, close clinical monitoring alongside rehabilitation can be essential for recovery. Skilled nursing teams work together with physical and occupational therapists to help patients regain function while safely managing complex medical needs.
Regaining Mobility After Extended Weakness
With prolonged hospitalization or serious injury (such as a tibial plateau fracture), a noticeable decline in strength and endurance is common. Simple activities like sitting up in bed, standing, transferring, or walking may suddenly require assistance. Through structured therapy programs and gradual progression, rehabilitation can help patients safely rebuild the physical abilities needed for everyday life.
Physical therapy sessions may focus on improving walking ability, balance, lower-body strength, joint stability, and endurance. Therapists also help patients safely use assistive devices such as walkers while working to reduce fall risk and increase confidence with movement.
Successful Recovery With Restored Independence
At discharge, Ms. Farnswoth exhibited increased coordination, improved stability, and was able to regain her strength to walk over 200 feet with a 2-wheeled walker. She no longer reported pain at rest or during movement, and is able to safely return to her assisted to living facility a few days shy of her 97th birthday, where she plans to celebrate with all her friends.
“The therapy department at Thrive is definitely at the top!”
-Ms. Farnswoth
Compassionate Skilled Nursing Care at Thrive Rehab of Pearland
Ms. Farnswoth’s recovery journey highlights the importance of skilled nursing care, personalized rehabilitation, and compassionate support following serious injury and hospitalization. Through consistent physical therapy, medical management, and encouragement from the Thrive team, she was able to regain her mobility, improve her strength, and safely return to her assisted living community with greater independence and confidence. Her progress serves as a powerful reminder that with the right rehabilitation program, patients can recover successfully, restore quality of life, and return to the people and routines they value most.
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