title: Complications of immobilization and bed rest. Part 2: Other complications.
abstract: Prolonged immobilization affects almost every organ system. Respiratory complications include decreased ventilation, atelectasis, and pneumonia. Decreased basal metabolic rate, increased diuresis, natriuresis, and nitrogen and calcium depletion affect metabolism. Genitourinary problems include renal stones and more frequent urinary tract infections. Glucose intolerance, anorexia, constipation, and pressure sores might develop. Central nervous system changes could affect balance and coordination and lead to increasing dependence on caregivers.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Western Ontario, London.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Teasell
authors.forename: D K
authors.initials: DK
authors.lastname: Dittmer
mesh_terms: D001510:Bed Rest / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004700:Endocrine System Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D003668:Pressure Ulcer / Q000209:etiology