Optimizing Balance and Coordination Through Integrated Physical Exercise in Patients Following Fracture Surgery

The high incidence of traffic accidents has led to a significant increase in fracture cases, particularly in the lower extremities, many of which require treatment through Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) procedures. Post-ORIF patients commonly experience pain and fear in performing daily activities, including impaired balance and coordination. These issues may hinder recovery and lead to a general decline in functional status. To address this condition, a structured and progressive integrated physical exercise intervention is necessary. This approach not only focuses on improving motor function, but also incorporates pain management and enhancement of the patient’s fall efficacy (confidence in preventing falls), to ensure optimal rehabilitation, particularly in improving balance and coordination. This study employed a pre-experimental design using a one-group pretest-posttest approach, with univariate and bivariate data analysis. The instruments used included the Barthel Index to assess functional status, the Fall Efficacy Scale, and a clinical observation sheet to evaluate physical ability. The results showed an improvement in balance function, coordination, and overall functional status in post-ORIF patients with lower extremity fractures after receiving the integrated activity training intervention. The Wilcoxon test showed a p-value of 0.001 (p < 0.05), indicating a statistically significant effect. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that an integrated physical exercise program combined with pain management and fall efficacy enhancement has a significant impact on improving balance, coordination, and functional status in patients recovering from fractures.