The Ugly Effects of Immobilization and Prolonged Inactivity

Unfortunately, musculoskeletal injury sometimes require a prolonged period of rest from activity in order for injuries to heal. During periods of inactivity, the entire musculoskeletal system is affected. Cartilage that lines joints thins, bone and muscle loss becomes evident, connective tissue fibers that link tendons to bone become weaker. The result is that injuries that are seemingly affecting one part of the body therefore effects the rest of the body that needs to rest. In order to reduce the subsequent risk of injury, it is important to take into account the downstream effects of every injury. For example, if someone is receiving a total knee replacement, it is important to consider the effects that decreased activity has on the ankle, foot, and hip that all receive altered forces with each step. In addition, it is important to consider the effect that compensation can have on the opposite leg that ends up accepting increased load with each step. In cases of prolonged immobilization, the reloading and strengthening process that results in restoring preinjury levels of loading tolerance can take many months. It may be useful to see a physical therapist to determine how to most effectively and efficiently regain your strength.