Can I get Physiotherapy before fracture is fully healed?

Just over 4 weeks ago I sprained my ankle; my x-ray/ultra sound/CT scan results say that I have a Grade 3- high grade tear of the talofibular ligament, a very small fracture of the anterior process of the calcaneus. And a small avulsion fracture at the tip of the distal fibula (at the attachment of the anterior talofibular ligament). I do not need surgery. I have been wearing a CAM boot for most of this time. I did have a cast on for a week though.

The fractures are so small it took the CT scan to see them. And I'm not really in much pain at all. At this point, the pain I get is just from my foot feeling really stiff- I think partly from the healing torn ligament and partly from being held in place so long. It has been 4 weeks and 3 days since I hurt myself and I was wondering if I can start physiotherapy before the fractures have fully healed or should I wait until it has been 6 weeks from the day I hurt myself?

I really want the stiffness/soreness to get better but I don't wan the fractures to be affected.

Thanks for your help.

Hi Sarah,

Usually the Consultant under which care you were would guide you with regards to your rehab and decide when to refer to physio. I would contact a physio and arrange an appointment and the physio can guide you on what can you do now. They can also email or write to your Consultant if they need further guidance. Would also help if you bring the Letters that you got from Radiology or from your Consultant at your initial asssessment so the physio can have all the necessary info.

I hope this helps.

Kindly,

Nicoleta