Broken Tibia 6.5 weeks in - Can I start Physio?

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.

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

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Originally Posted by 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.

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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

@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.

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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

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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.