Physiotherapy, Pain Management, and Regaining Movement
Healing a fracture doesn't stop when the cast is removed, it truly begins then. Rehabilitation is where structure meets strength. It helps restore movement, flexibility, and confidence, ensuring that the healed bone functions as naturally as it did before injury. Without proper rehabilitation, joints stiffen, muscles weaken, and even a perfectly healed bone can limit movement. This stage bridges medical treatment with complete recovery, helping you regain independence and mobility safely.
During this phase, the bone is still stabilising, so the focus is on movement without strain.
As bone union begins, controlled motion becomes safe and beneficial.
Once bone strength returns, the goal shifts to rebuilding function, endurance, and stability.
| Fracture Type | Approximate Start Time | Early Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Non-surgical (cast only) | Within 1–2 weeks (unaffected joints); active PT after cast removal | Gentle range-of-motion, circulation maintenance |
| Post-surgical (plates, rods, screws) | 2–3 weeks post-surgery | Controlled movement and scar mobility |
| Complex or multiple fractures | 4–6 weeks or as advised | Pain relief, swelling reduction, gradual muscle activation |
Focus: Preserve circulation and prevent stiffness.
Focus: Restore flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Focus: Rebuild strength, endurance, and stability.
Focus: Return to daily activity with confidence.
Reduced mobility and flexibility
Weakness and improper movement patterns
Persistent discomfort and swelling
Incomplete return to normal function
Even 20 minutes of daily guided activity can greatly improve circulation, muscle memory, and functional confidence.
| Fracture Location | Average Recovery Time |
|---|---|
| Fingers and toes | 3–6 weeks |
| Wrist | 6–8 weeks |
| Ankle | 6–10 weeks |
| Clavicle (collarbone) | 6–8 weeks |
| Ribs | 4–12 weeks |
| Arm (humerus, radius, ulna) | 6–10 weeks |
| Leg (femur, tibia, fibula) | 10–16 weeks |
| Hip | 10–12 weeks (can extend to 2–6 months for elderly) |
| Pelvis | 8–12 weeks |
| Spine (vertebrae) | 6–12 weeks |
Start with light movements and short durations, increasing intensity slowly
Avoid additional strain, especially for wrist and spine fractures
Crutches, slings, braces until balance and strength improve
Support muscles and tendons throughout recovery
Swelling or pain lasting more than 24 hours means you should scale back
Immobilisation limits blood flow and shortens soft tissue. This makes joints feel stiff once movement resumes. Guided stretching, gradual mobilisation, and physiotherapy restore elasticity and reduce discomfort over time.
Physiotherapy usually starts soon after immobilisation or surgery — sometimes while the cast is still on. Early movement of nearby joints maintains circulation and muscle tone. Active movement begins only once X-rays confirm safe bone union.
Safe exercises are those prescribed by your physiotherapist. Initially, focus on gentle, pain-free movement and stretching. Later, progress to resistance and balance training. Avoid heavy weights or jerky motions until medically cleared.
Mild discomfort is expected as muscles awaken and joints adjust, but sharp or increasing pain isn't. Persistent pain can indicate strain or inflammation — inform your physiotherapist immediately so they can modify your program safely.
Excess fatigue, swelling, or pain lasting over 24 hours means you should reduce intensity. Rehabilitation should challenge you, not exhaust you. Consistent progress, not force - builds stronger, safer recovery.