Physiotherapists play a very important role in the rehabilitation of patients who have sustained fractures. They are usually referred for therapy after a period of immobilisation – usually 6 to 12 weeks.

Physiotherapy helps accelerate the healing process, reduce pain and swelling and improve range of motion to get the patients back to their normal physical self. Physiotherapy is most often incorporated into a patient’s healing routine after sufficient healing has taken place and the bone is properly aligned. It is purported to strengthen the bone and the muscle tissue surrounding the bone in order to assist the patient regain full range of motion and independent mobility and function.

Physiotherapy uses a variety of modalities and exercises to help in its rehabilitation. The modalities used but not limited to are, Ultrasound, TENS, Hydrotherapy, Paraffin wax bath or Electrical stimulation.

Exercises will help to develop the muscles and improve strength and mobility in and around the affected area. Different exercises such as active, passive, resisted, concentric/eccentric etc are used in combination with modalities to improve range of motion, strength, flexibility in the affected joint and muscle – with the goal to achieve complete functional independence.