Postinjury

Postinjury refers to the period that follows an injury, encompassing the biological healing process, functional recovery, and the psychological and social adjustments that accompany being injured and returning to activity. The postinjury phase is highly variable, depending on injury type, severity, patient age, comorbidities, and the quality of initial care.

Medical considerations in the postinjury period begin with the acute phase, which focuses on bleeding control, inflammation management, and pain relief. The subacute phase addresses tissue repair and protection, while the rehabilitation phase emphasizes restoring range of motion, strength, balance, and endurance. Rehabilitation plans are typically individualized and may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, adaptive equipment, and gradual exposure to activity. Return-to-activity criteria guide progression and help minimize re-injury.

Psychosocial aspects are also important in postinjury care. Injury can provoke fear, anxiety, depression, and social or occupational disruption. Access to psychological support and social resources can improve adherence to rehabilitation and overall outcomes.

Common postinjury complications include chronic pain, post-traumatic arthritis, deconditioning, sleep disturbances, and mood disorders. Populations affected can include athletes seeking a return to competition, older adults at risk of functional decline, and workers requiring vocational rehabilitation. Terminology varies, with postinjury sometimes linked to concepts such as postinjury syndrome or postinjury pain to describe persistent symptoms after healing.

Related topics include rehabilitation, wound healing, pain management, and return to sport.