Physical therapy after a broken leg at PhysioArt now also with Artromot
The cast has been removed, but your leg seems to have forgotten how to move. Pain, stiffness, and fear of overexertion are common concerns in the early days of walking freely. This is exactly when it is time to get moving. To regain your confidence and strength, it is essential to start physical therapy right after a leg fracture recovery.
Whether it is the result of a sports injury, a fall, or an accident, a leg fracture is a serious ordeal for the body. Recovery takes time, patience, and proper rehabilitation. Our approach at PhysioArt is individualized, with custom care for each patient, and our new Artromot device will help speed up your recovery process.
How long does it hurt and how long does it take for a broken leg to heal?
The answer to the question how long does a broken leg hurt is not as straightforward. It usually depends on the type and location of the fracture, the age and general health condition of the patient, and the treatment applied.
Of course, the pain is most severe immediately after the fracture. Usually, the severe pain subsides after a few days if the leg is stabilized (with a cast, splint, or surgery) and painkillers are taken. The pain significantly subsides in the next 1-2 weeks, but there may be discomfort when moving or applying pressure. In the weeks that follow, the bone gradually heals and the pain syndrome subsides further. Passive physical therapy can also be performed after a leg fracture.
When the cast is removed, more active rehabilitation begins. Rehabilitation started in a timely manner for a broken leg helps restore mobility. Most people can put weight on their foot with minimal pain 2-3 months after the fracture, but it can take about 3-6 months to regain full strength and range of motion.
Active and passive physiotherapy
We mentioned that there are both active and passive types of physiotherapy. Let’s explain the difference between them. In active physiotherapy, the patient performs various exercises that restore muscle function and the feeling of control. With passive physiotherapy, the movement is performed by the physiotherapist using equipment or external force. Examples include massages and therapies performed with specialized devices.
Walking after a broken leg
Initially, patients use crutches or a walker to reduce the load on the healing bone and prevent the risk of re-injury. It is important that movements are controlled, slow, and smooth. Start by walking short distances and gradually increase the duration and intensity. Physical therapy exercises are also key – they strengthen muscles and improve coordination.
Remember that when climbing stairs, you start with your healthy and strong leg, followed by the crutches and the operated leg. When descending stairs, the principle is reversed – first place the crutch, then the broken leg, and finally the healthy leg.
Broken leg in adults
In older patients, recovery from fractures is slower. Bones heal slower, even after relatively minor falls. Commonly associated conditions such as osteoporosis, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems prolong healing and rehabilitation time.
The first steps in the recommended treatment for a broken leg include proper immobilization with a cast, splint, or surgery in severe cases, as well as pain and swelling control through medication and rest. Physical therapy plays a key role in restoring flexibility and coordination. Psychological support and nutrition are equally important – a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein promotes bone density and accelerates healing.
Broken leg in children
A broken leg in a child is an event that always causes concern not only for the little ones, but also for their parents. Children recover faster, but they also need professional rehabilitation.
The first steps after breaking a leg include putting on a cast or brace, and for complex fractures, surgery. After the cast is removed, active rehabilitation begins. Therapists must employ care and patience, turning exercise into games. Diet is also important. One’s diet should include foods rich in calcium, protein, and vitamins that support good bone health.
Benefits of rehabilitation and exercise after a broken leg
- Restoring muscle strength and mobility - Rehabilitation helps restore muscle strength and flexibility, which weaken when the leg is immobilized.
- Improved blood circulation - Physical activity stimulates blood circulation, accelerates healing, and reduces the risk of blood clots.
- Prevention of complications - Timely rehabilitation of a broken leg has the main benefit of preventing the risk of complications resulting from immobility.
- Psychological benefits - Gradual recovery gives a sense of control, boosts confidence, and reduces anxiety related to pain or limitations.
- Returning to normal life - Properly performing exercises to mobilize a broken leg helps you return to performing daily activities with ease.
Physical therapy after breaking a leg - PhysioArt, Sofia
The right way to recover from a broken leg is one that is tailored to the individual needs of the patient. This is what we do at the PhysioArt Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Center. Along with physiotherapy exercises, we offer treatments with:
- Interferential current - Two medium-frequency currents with different frequencies are applied simultaneously to the body. This results in a new low-frequency current that penetrates deep into the tissues. Interferential current improves blood circulation, reduces pain, and relaxes muscles.
- High-intensity laser - For patients who have not undergone surgery, we use a laser with two wavelengths. Laser therapy stimulates cell regeneration, accelerates soft tissue healing, and has a strong pain-relieving effect.
- Low-frequency magnets - We also use magnet therapy to treat broken legs. The low-frequency magnetic field stimulates blood circulation, relieves pain, and accelerates the bone healing process.
- Artromot - Performs passive movement of all joints in the lower limb. With the help of the Artromot, muscles relax, range of motion gets increased, and pain is reduced while accelerating recovery.
At PhysioArt, we are constantly upgrading not only our knowledge and skillset as specialists, but also the equipment we work with. Our goal is to provide the most effective and modern treatment to the patients who decide to trust us. The Artromot is our newest addition, which allows us to apply first-class passive physical therapy after a leg fracture. At the center, we work with children and adults.
For more information about rehabilitation options, please contact us by phone at + 359 89 872 4175 or via the contact form here.