What are the postoperative functional exercises for tibial fracture?

Jul 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I fell downstairs and fractured my tibia (lower leg bone). I am currently in the recovery phase. Could you please tell me what functional exercises are recommended after tibia fracture surgery?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Shuai
Functional exercises after tibial fracture surgery are an important part of the rehabilitation process. Below are some common exercise methods: 1. Ankle pump exercises: Flexing and extending the ankle joint promotes blood circulation in the lower limbs, prevents deep vein thrombosis, reduces swelling. 2. Isometric contraction of the quadriceps: The patient lies supine with legs straightened. Tighten the thigh muscles and then relax them. This helps prevent thigh muscle atrophy and strengthens muscle strength. 3. Straight leg raise exercises: While lying supine, slowly lift the affected leg and hold for several seconds. This helps strengthen the thigh and calf muscles, preparing for weight-bearing walking later on. 4. Joint mobility exercises: As the fracture heals, gradually increase flexion and extension movements of the knee and ankle joints to prevent joint stiffness and muscle atrophy. 5. Weight-bearing exercises: Under a physician's guidance, progressively perform weight-bearing exercises according to the healing progress of the fracture. Begin with light loads and gradually increase the weight to promote complete recovery of the fractured area.