Re: Spiral Fracture of Tibia
Casts commonly on for 6-8/52, but really depends on the type of fracture, location, healing that goes on etc... Doctor should tell you how long the plaster will be on for...this can change though, sometimes on longer than initially thought due to healing process and fractures stability.
Spiral fractures can be problematic as they can slip and overlap, thus often full leg cast for longer than you feel may be necessary. A full cast stops the knee moving, which in turn limits the amount the tibia moves even more....thus protecting the fracture. Generally the doctors will re-xray, assess how well it is healing and may then reduce the cast. The main thing is to listen to the doctor in terms of weightbearing.
Once they are happy with the healing of the break and the plaster is off and full weightbearing is happening, then build up of activity can begin. Be guided by a therapist though...you don't want to run too quick, when you may not have full movement, strength or balance back. You don't want to develope commensations and bad habits if you can help it.
Sorry can not be more specific...be guided by your specialist and therapists. Ask them the questions and hopefully they will have the answers for you.
Good Luck
Re: Spiral Fracture of Tibia
Hi My son has a spiral fracture of his tibia, which he got whilst skiing 6 days ago. He has a full leg lightweight cast on and he is non-weight bearing on elbow crutches. Do you have any idea when he can return to school, he is 7 years old.
He has a loaned wheel chair as well. He is not very steady on his crutches and needs someone with him all the time when walking. He can manage a few stairs again with support.
His school is quite small with a few steps.
I am planning on going in to his school tomorrow to risk assess with the head (he doesn't know yet)
I am keen he does not miss too much school, as it means I will have to be off aswell. He is not in any pain and is very cheerful and really tries hard with the crutches.
Thanks
Re: Spiral Fracture of Tibia
I had this exact same kind of fracture. I had 3 different casts on for 18 and a half weeks. The first 12 i had 2 different full leg casts and then the last 6 and a half i had a cast up to my knee. I got the cast on on June 20th, and got it off on October 28th, so after i got it off i wasn't aloud to play sports until the end of march