What is an Intramedullary Nail?

To align the fractured bones and provide optimal healing support, the orthopaedic surgeon makes a small incision through the skin and tissue closest to one end of the broken bones. The surgeon then inserts a small rod-like nail device into the hollow center of the bone, called the medullary cavity. The intramedullary nail forms a self-contained internal splint to stabilize the fracture. This is often done for fractures of the tibia, femur, and humerus .

Potential Advantages of the Intramedullary Nail

Provides durable, strong and flexible support.

Allows more exact alignment of the fractured bones for faster healing and may lead to earlier weightbearing.

May lead to earlier joint motion for reduced stiffness.

Encourages more natural-like motion in uninjured muscles and neighboring joints.

How does physical therapy help to heal?
Since motion and muscle strength play an important role in fracture healing, the right exercises can significantly aid in your recovery. Of course, the fracture itself may hinder the use of your injured limb. Your doctor’s choice of an intramedullary nail gives you the potential to begin moving earlier than treatment with an external cast or brace.