In part 1 we looked at the 5 complex stages of fracture healing from the initial break to full repair, as the bone forms a bulbous collar around the break during the remodelling phase. In part 2 we will look at young footballer who came for rehab following a significant lower limb fracture. He has kindly agreed to share his x-ray results and his progress through rehab, to encourage others that a return to sport is achievable with the right physiotherapy, encouragement and guidance.

From a physiotherapy perspective following a fracture, as with any athlete, it is vital in the early stages to set realistic rehab goals. Understanding the nature of the chosen sport will ultimately dictate the length of rehab, together with the skill acquisition needed before a complete return to a competitive level. For the purpose of this rehab blog we have added a selection of exercises from the many that were used in physiotherapy.

Case History

A 21-year-old male footballer sustained a fractured tibia and fibula playing football, as a result of a collision and direct trauma. The x-ray below taken at A&E show clearly a displaced oblique fracture to the right tibia and fibula. As mentioned in part 1, complications can arise with any fracture particularly a serious displaced fracture. Infection, injury to nerves and blood vessels, blood clots (these may also occur without surgery), malalignment or the inability to correctly position the broken fragments, delayed union or non-union (when the fracture heals slower than usual or not at all).