Will I Need Physiotherapy After Fracture Surgery?
If you're preparing for fracture surgery, or recovering from it, you may be wondering whether physiotherapy is really necessary. In most cases the honest answer is yes: surgery fixes the bone, but rehabilitation restores the function.
Why Physiotherapy Matters After a Fracture
Immobilisation and injury lead to stiffness, muscle wasting and reduced balance surprisingly quickly. Physiotherapy addresses:
Restoring joint movement after a period in a cast, boot or sling
Rebuilding muscle strength around the injury
Retraining balance and confidence, particularly after lower limb fractures
Guiding a safe, staged return to work, driving and sport
When Does Rehabilitation Start?
That depends on the fracture and the stability of the fixation. One advantage of surgical fixation is that it often allows earlier movement of nearby joints. Your surgeon sets the boundaries, including what can move, when, and how much weight can go through the limb, and your physiotherapist works within them.
How Long Does Rehabilitation Take?
Simple fractures may need only a few weeks of guided exercise, while complex lower limb injuries can involve several months of progressive rehabilitation. Consistency with your home program makes a genuine difference to the end result.
Dr Janan's Approach
At COG, collaboration is built into the name. Dr Janan works closely with physiotherapists, podiatrists and other allied health professionals across Melbourne and regional Victoria, so your rehabilitation is coordinated with your surgical care rather than left to chance.
During your recovery, Dr Janan will set clear milestones with you and your physiotherapist, adjusting the plan as your fracture heals.
Key Takeaways
Surgery fixes the bone; physiotherapy restores movement, strength and function
Stable fixation often allows rehabilitation to begin earlier
Rehabilitation length varies from weeks to months depending on the injury
Coordinated care between surgeon and physiotherapist leads to the best outcomes
Ready to discuss your treatment options?
Book a consultation with Dr Janan Chandrananth to plan your fracture care and recovery from surgery through to full function.
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