Nearly 7 million Americans suffer fractures or broken bones each year. At Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West in Sun City West, Arizona, experienced physical therapist Kimberly Hilditch, PT, MSPT,, and the team regularly provide post-fracture care to people four and older, using a combination of manual therapies and advanced therapeutic techniques. To receive nonsurgical care for fractures, call Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West today, or make your appointment online.

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How does physical therapy help fractures?

When you break a bone, your doctor repairs the fracture manually or with surgery. Then, they immobilize it with a cast or a splint so your bone heals and fuses back together.

It typically takes at least six weeks for broken bones to heal. During that time, it’s normal to experience muscle loss and a decreased range of motion.

Physical therapy uses stretches, strengthening exercises, and manual therapies to help you build muscle and return to your original form. It speeds up the healing process so you can get back to your favorite activities more quickly.

After a fracture, do I need to wait to start physical therapy?

Yes. Physical therapy doesn’t begin until your bone heals and your cast or splint is removed. Even so, it’s important that you don’t rush into physical activity. Starting exercises too soon or putting too much strain on your newly repaired bones can cause the fracture to recur.

Listen to your physical therapist carefully and make sure to follow their instructions.

What happens at a physical therapy appointment for fractures?

After your bones finish healing, your doctor refers you to Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West.

During the first visit, your physical therapist completes an evaluation and an assessment. They ask about your symptoms and conduct a series of tests, checking your range of motion, flexibility, strength, and physical function.

After gathering that information, your physical therapist develops a personalized treatment plan to help you recover. Among several aspects of treatment, the main focus is on building the muscle you’ve lost during immobilization.

What does physical therapy for fractures involve?

The Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West team treats fractures using a conservative and patient-centered approach. Depending on the severity and location of your fracture, they might suggest:

  • Therapeutic exercises
  • Manual stretching
  • Manual traction
  • Myofascial release
  • Trigger point release
  • Deep soft tissue mobilization
  • Muscle energy techniques
  • Ultrasound therapy
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
  • Mechanical traction
  • Iontophoresis
  • Laser Touch One™

It might take some trial and error to determine the therapeutic approach that most benefits you, and most people see the best results from a combination of treatments. These measures encourage greater circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.

If you’re recovering from a fracture, schedule an appointment at Valley Rehabilitation of Sun City West today by calling the office or booking online.