Musculoskeletal trauma rehabilitation: a global comparison

Rehabilitation after musculoskeletal trauma is globally acknowledged as essential for restoring function and improving quality of life; however, significant variation exists in rehabilitation frameworks and services worldwide. Although certain principles—such as early intervention, structured care pathways, and multidisciplinary approaches—are universally recognized as important determinants of outcomes in trauma patients, their implementation and effectiveness vary considerably due to differences in health care infrastructure, economic resources, policy frameworks, and cultural contexts. Drawing on comparative analyses of rehabilitation frameworks across regions, including North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Africa, this paper identifies structural variations, systemic challenges, and innovations that can inform global rehabilitation efforts. Strategic international collaboration focusing on shared learning, standardized protocols, technology integration, and targeted investments is key to creating equitable and sustainable rehabilitation models, especially in resource-limited settings and aging populations.