Broken Tibia 6.5 weeks in - Can I start Physio?

[Urbanen]

Hello all!

I broke my tibia on the 1st October 2011, it was a clean break and on the 9th November 2011 I have been put in a half leg removable cast. This was at my request, my doctor wanted to put me in a solid half leg. I have no pain, no discomfort and there has been no surgery or manipulation to the leg.

I have been walking on it since the pain subsided using two crutches, putting as much weight as I dare on the leg whilst walking. But I feel more psychologically limited rather than physically. My next appointment is the 28th of December.

Ok so there is as much background as I can give and I know each case is unique but if anyone can answer the following, if at best with an educated guess (but please state if it is)

So my question is can I start doing light physio? If not now when is likely?

If I am able to do physio are there any specific resources I can browse to find suitable exercises?

I was thinking of going swimming and using a floatation device and doing light water treading. Anyway I know nothing about physio and all my knowledge has come from googling so any help is greatly appreciated in advance.

Similar Threads:

• Fractured fibula that has not healed after 16 weeks and when can I start with physio
• broken tibia doctor saying put weight on it after two weeks
• range of physio for broken humerus 7 weeks on bones not fixed
• Broken Tibia & Fibula and Fractured Tibia (Spiral)
• Broken Tibia

[mcasus]

Did you have a full-leg cast from Oct 1 to Nov 9? Did the orthopedist advise you to walk on the half cast at that point?

Without access to the x-rays to see what stage the healing of the fracture is at, it wouldn't be prudent for anyone to give you advice as to what level of weight-bearing or exercise would be acceptable. Doing "physio" is not the same as consulting a licensed Physiotherapist who has the education and experience to evaluate your status and make a
prescription for exercises that would be appropriate in your case, once he/she has all the necessary information about your history and current status.

"Physio" isn't just about doing a bunch of exercises. It is about professional evaluation and prescription to ensure that you get the best result possible after this unfortunate
accident. I'd suggest you make an appointment for a Physio evaluation before embarking on any exercise program. The Physio can then guide you with the choice and intensity of
exercises, as well as progressing your gait appropriately.

Good luck

Hello all!

I broke my tibia on the 1st October 2011, it was a clean break and on the 9th November 2011 I have been put in a half leg removable cast. This was at my request, my doctor wanted to put me in a solid half leg. I have no pain, no discomfort and there has been no surgery or manipulation to the leg.

I have been walking on it since the pain subsided using two crutches, putting as much weight as I dare on the leg whilst walking. But I feel more psychologically limited rather than physically. My next appointment is the 28th of December.

Ok so there is as much background as I can give and I know each case is unique but if anyone can answer the following, if at best with an educated guess (but please state if it is)

So my question is can I start doing light physio? If not now when is likely?

If I am able to do physio are there any specific resources I can browse to find suitable exercises?

I was thinking of going swimming and using a floatation device and doing light water treading. Anyway I know nothing about physio and all my knowledge has come from googling so any help is greatly appreciated in advance.

[Emanuele]

Completely in agreement with Mcasus

You need an X-ray to see if your tibia can bear your body weight. As a rule of the thumb, 6 weeks from the traumatic event could be enough, but that doesnt mean I would give "green light" without having a clear idea of your situation.

All the best

Emanuele

[Urbanen]

@mcasus

Yes I had a full leg on up until November 9th, from then on i've been in a half leg removable cast. Also I have been advised to walk on it, I was advised it was a clean break after two weeks and told to start walking on it. But not given specifics as to how much weight.

Doing "physio" is not the same as consulting a licensed Physiotherapist who has the education and experience to evaluate your status and make a prescription for exercises that would be appropriate in your case

Thanks for this info, I think from your reply ill try get an xray carried out asap and ask the doctors what they think in terms of being referred for physio. If I can't get an xray booked ill just be patient.