Rehab for Tibia nailing

Tibia nailing is a standard procedure for most patients with fractures of the lower limb. In this procedure a metal nail( stainless steel or titanium) is used to stabilise the fracture fragments.

Goals of Rehab

• Protection of the fracture till full union.

• Preservation of joint movement.

• Prevention of loss of muscle mass and strengthening.

• Faster Recovery.

1-2 weeks:

• Knee Range Of Motion exercises upto 90 deg, ankle mobilisation, tendo achilles stretching exercises.

• Limb elevation on 2 pillows for reduction of swelling .

• Static Quadriceps exercises, for prevention of quadriceps wasting and muscle strengthening.

• Aided ambulation, non weight bearing for unstable fractures (multiple fragments at the fracture site) and partial weight bearing for stable fracture(simple fractures). Note: consult with you doctor before weight bearing.

3-4weeks

• Knee ROM exercises, ankle mobilisation, tendo achilles stretching exercises.

• Limb elevation.

• Static Quadriceps exercises.

• Aided ambulation and weight bearing will depend on the fracture pattern and fracture healing. Note: consult with you doctor before weight bearing.

5 - 8 weeks

• Knee ROM, ankle mobilisation and tendo achilles stretching exercises

• Limb elevation.

• Static Quadriceps exercises.

• Aided ambulation and weight bearing will depend on the fracture pattern and fracture healing. Note: consult with you doctor before weight bearing.

8-12weeks

• Knee ROM, ankle mobilisation and tendo achilles stretching exercises.

• Static Quadriceps exercises.

• Aided ambulation with progressive weight bearing as tolerated after 8 weeks can be allowed in most people (consult your treating physician, your treating doctor will decide based on actual status of the fracture)

Note:

1. Patients with unstable tibial fractures that are treated with an intramedullary nail are typically placed in short leg splints for 4 to 6 weeks to prevent contracture of the ankle and to protect the fracture with additional support.

2. Tibial shaft fractures can take longer time (about 3 to 6 months) to unite, and therapy goals can change based on the actual status of your fracture.

To know more click:

1. Static quadriceps exercises and Knee ROM exercises.

2. Toe touch weight bearing crutch walking.

3. Partial weight bearing crutch walking.

4. Ankle mobilisation exercises.

5. Crutches of walker what to choose.

Note: Always consult your doctor for more clarification, especially to clearly understand when you can start weight bearing, because therapy goals can differ from one person to another.