Post-fracture Physiotherapy
What is the role of physiotherapy after a fracture?
Post-fracture physiotherapy is an important part of the injury rehabilitation and recovery process to help you regain mobility and strength after a closed fracture has healed. The physiotherapists at our clinic work with people recovering from fractures every day. Our goal is to help you regain movement, coordination and confidence, so you can safely return to work, daily activities, sport, or hobbies.
When does post-fracture physiotherapy start?
Post-fracture physiotherapy can start depending on the type and location of your injury. In many cases, we can begin gentle movement or soft tissue work even while the area is still immobilised in a cast or brace. For others, we wait until the fracture is medically cleared as stable. We’ll work in close collaboration with your GP or specialist to determine the safest starting point.
What does physiotherapy involve after a fracture?
We tailor each physiotherapy program to the individual and the affected area, but common components may include:
- Range-of-motion exercises to reduce stiffness
- Strengthening to rebuild muscle and joint support
- Gait retraining (for lower limb fractures)
- Balance and proprioception work
- Return-to-function or return-to-work programs based on your lifestyle
What’s the role of home exercises?
Exercising at home is an important aspect of your rehabilitation process after the injury has healed. It helps you maintain momentum between appointments and ensure your recovery continues every day. We’ll keep your program manageable and adjust it as you improve. If you’ve suffered a workplace injury, contact us for a tailored post-fracture physiotherapy program.
Importance of post-fracture physiotherapy
While bones can heal naturally, the recovery process often leaves behind stiffness and muscle weakness. Post-fracture physiotherapy offers a structured, evidence-based approach designed to help you regain movement and confidence. This process also helps you prevent long-term complications such as joint restriction, muscular imbalance, or chronic pain. If you’ve suffered an injury and looking to begin your post-fracture physiotherapy, get in touch with us for a tailored rehabilitation program.
Will I need an X-ray or scan before starting physiotherapy?
In most cases, your GP or specialist will confirm healing through imaging before we begin. If there’s ever any doubt, we’ll refer you back for a medical review. Your safety comes first.
How do I know my physiotherapy treatment is safe and up to date?
As registered physiotherapists under AHPRA, we follow national clinical guidelines and maintain ongoing education to ensure our treatments are evidence-based and patient-centred. Your rehab plan is designed around your goals, your healing stage, and what research shows to be effective.
How is treatment different depending on the bone that was fractured?
Each fracture requires a different approach. For example, a wrist fracture might focus on grip strength and hand coordination, while an ankle fracture needs more balance, weight-bearing retraining, and walking drills. We’ll design your rehab around the specific demands of your body and goals.
Can physiotherapy help me get back to sport or work?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a tradie, a desk-based worker, or a weekend athlete, we’ll gradually reintroduce the movements and physical demands relevant to your life. We’ll also assess your readiness before you return to high-risk tasks or contact sport.
I feel nervous about moving again. Is that normal?
Very. Many people worry they’ll re-injure themselves. We’ll work with you to rebuild confidence through education, graded exposure, and progressive movement. It’s not just about healing bones—it’s about feeling safe in your body again.
Will I return to normal function?
Most people do, especially with the right support. We’ll personalise your plan to help you regain strength, flexibility, and confidence, and we’ll set realistic goals based on your needs and your body’s response to treatment.
Is hydrotherapy helpful in regaining movement after a fracture has healed?
Yes—hydrotherapy can be a fantastic way to reintroduce movement, especially for lower limb fractures. Once your fracture is stable, your physiotherapist may recommend pool-based rehab to reduce load on your joints while building mobility and strength.
Can physiotherapy help with swelling or tight tissue around the area?
Definitely. Swelling and soft tissue tightness are common side effects, and we can use a combination of compression, movement strategies, and education to help reduce these symptoms.
Is pain normal during physiotherapy?
It’s quite common to feel a bit of discomfort as you start moving again. That said, sharp or persistent pain isn’t something we ignore. We’ll monitor your symptoms closely and adjust your plan so it stays both safe and effective.
How long does recovery take?
Healing timelines vary depending on the bone involved, your age, general health, and how early you begin rehab. Some people recover within a few weeks, while others may take a few months to fully return to their previous level of activity. We’ll keep you informed and supported every step of the way.
What should I avoid while rehabbing from a fracture?
We’ll guide you on what to avoid depending on your stage of healing, but generally, you’ll need to steer clear of heavy lifting, high-impact activity, or stretching the injured area too early. Stick to your program and check in if you’re unsure—better safe than sorry.
Can physiotherapy reduce my risk of future injury?
Yes. We not only help you recover but also address the underlying factors—like poor balance, muscle imbalances or joint control—that may have contributed to the fracture or could cause future issues.
