Overview
About Post-Fracture Rehabilitation
After a fracture heals, the surrounding muscles are weakened from disuse, joints are stiff from immobilisation, and the limb may feel unfamiliar and unreliable. Post-fracture rehabilitation bridges the gap between bone healing and full functional recovery. It progresses through phases: initial range of motion restoration, progressive strength building, functional training, and finally return to work or sport. The programme is tailored to the fracture site, fixation method, and patient goals.
Key Benefits
Restores full range of motion lost during immobilisation in a cast or sling
Progressive strengthening rebuilds muscle mass and power around the healed bone
Functional training ensures safe return to daily tasks, work, and sport
Gait re-education after lower limb fractures corrects abnormal walking patterns
Reduces the risk of re-injury by building strength and proprioception before return to activity
Frequently Asked Questions
When should rehabilitation start after a fracture?
Rehabilitation starts as early as possible — even while the fracture is immobilised in a cast. Exercises for surrounding muscles and non-injured joints begin immediately. Active rehabilitation of the fractured limb starts once the fracture is clinically and radiologically healed.
Why is my limb so weak after a fracture?
Immobilisation leads to significant muscle wasting (atrophy) — muscles can lose up to 30% of their strength in just 3–4 weeks of disuse. This is normal and completely reversible with targeted physiotherapy and progressive loading.
How long does post-fracture rehabilitation take?
Duration depends on the fracture severity and location. Simple wrist fractures may need 4–8 weeks of rehabilitation. Femur (thigh bone) or complex lower limb fractures may need 3–6 months of structured physiotherapy before full function is restored.
Is it normal to still have pain after the fracture has healed?
Yes — some aching and discomfort during early rehabilitation is normal as muscles and joints are being loaded again. However, sharp or worsening pain during exercises should be reported to your physiotherapist as it may indicate a problem with healing or technique.
Do I need a gym or can I exercise at home?
Early rehabilitation is often guided in a physiotherapy clinic. As you progress, a structured home exercise programme is provided. A gym with appropriate equipment is beneficial in the later stages for progressive resistance training and functional rehabilitation.