Invited review: Commentary on J. Kennedy Elliott’s paper entitled: The cause of disability following limb injuries

Abstract

Over 70 years ago, J. Kennedy Elliott, an orthopaedic surgeon, wrote a paper for the Society journal that provided important information for physiotherapists concerning the treatment of fractures and other similar injuries. Many of his thoughts remain part of current orthopaedic practice, and continue to influence our rehabilitation of such injuries. Although notable advancements have occurred in clinical practice, the major changes since Elliott’s time reflect developments in knowledge in the basic sciences that are associated with orthopaedics and rehabilitation. These include physiology, biochemistry and biomechanics. Such advances have led to more efficacious programs that have limited the degree of disability associated with these musculoskeletal injuries.