[Rehabilitation following hip fractures]

In the rehabilitation of patients with acetabular fractures, we try to achieve anatomical reconstruction of the joint as well as unlimited mobility. This is important for the patient's reintegration at work and in social life. These aims can only be reached with joint effort of the patient him/herself and all the different specialists concerned with the treatment. Functional physiotherapy should start as early as possible after trauma. Prophylaxis of joint stiffness, thrombosis, pneumonia and soft-tissue ulcers due to immobilization are not only important in the beginning. The restoration of circulation and resorption in the affected tissues, in addition to creation of global sensorimotor motion patterns, are the main aspects of this therapy. Definite long-term success should be ensured by concomitant ergotherapy and well-timed measures for the patient to regain his/her occupational abilities.