After sustaining a fracture, physiotherapy plays an important role in your rehabilitation.
you may be referred to Inline Physio Brisbane for rehabilitation. Whether your fracture is fixated externally with a cast or internally with surgery, our team is here to guide you in recovering movement and restoring functionality to the affected area.
Our approach focuses not only on rehabilitating the fracture itself but also on managing your overall biomechanics and function. By immobilizing the fracture, mobilizing the surrounding joints, preventing muscle weakness, and implementing a tailored home exercise program, we aim to facilitate a speedy and effective recovery.
So why is Physiotherapy important after a fracture?
A fracture is not an isolated injury, often accompanied by damage to soft tissues and surrounding structures. Additionally, methods of immobilization, such as plaster casts, can result in joint stiffness and muscle weakness. At Inline Physio Brisbane, we understand that the healing process involves more than just bone union and consolidation. We recognize the importance of including non-fractured joints and muscles in the rehabilitation process to ensure optimal recovery. For instance, a fractured shoulder may lead to stiffness in the elbow or wrist due to prolonged immobilization. Even lower limb fractures can impact the entire body’s functionality if range of motion or strength discrepancies arise.
Duration of Rehabilitation:
The duration and frequency of treatments vary based on several factors, including the type, severity, and location of the fracture, as well as the patient’s age and overall health. In general, it takes approximately 12 to 16 weeks for patients to be fully discharged and resume normal activities. However, complex cases may require a longer rehabilitation period.
Physiotherapy for Fracture Rehabilitation:
During your initial physiotherapy consultation at Inline Physio Brisbane, we conduct a comprehensive assessment of your injury and discuss any specific instructions from your doctor. Treatment progresses gradually, starting with gentle passive range of motion exercises and advancing to more active range of motion and strengthening exercises using various equipment like weights, elastic bands, and balls. Gradually increasing the intensity of exercises helps promote healing and ensures the achievement of your recovery goals. Our dedicated physiotherapists strive to expedite proper fracture healing, prevent re-injury, and ultimately help you regain the ability to enjoy your favorite activities, whether it’s soccer or sewing.
Monitoring Fracture Healing:
The healing process for a fracture occurs in multiple stages that begin immediately after the bone breaks. Initially, blood rushes to the area, delivering vital cells necessary for bone healing and providing protection. Around a week later, a callus, a collagen-rich bone tissue, starts forming at the fracture site, gradually hardening over time. Weeks after the break, new bone begins to replace the callus as osteoblasts (new bone-forming cells) move in. This process continues until the callus is completely replaced by new bone tissue, resulting in stronger bone at the fracture site.
Healing Progress:
Throughout the healing process, you can expect various changes, including a decrease in pain, increased range of motion, reduction in swelling, and subsiding bruising. These signs indicate that your fracture is healing properly.
Commencing Physiotherapy:
In most cases, physiotherapy can begin within the first six weeks after the injury, as recommended by your orthopedic specialist. Starting rehabilitation early helps prevent stiffness and weakness in adjacent joints and muscles while your fracture heals. After the initial six weeks or as advised by your healthcare provider, your physiotherapist will focus on regaining full joint range of motion and muscle strength.
Physio IS important after a fracture
Inline Physio Brisbane is dedicated to providing comprehensive fracture rehabilitation. Our tailored approach aims to restore movement, strengthen muscles, and facilitate optimal healing. By addressing not only the fracture but also the surrounding joints and muscles, we ensure a thorough and effective recovery process. Our team are committed to helping you regain your mobility and return to the activities you love as soon as physiologically possible!
If you have recently sustained a fracture and want to ensure a full recovery, book an appointment with one of our Physiotherapists today!