Fracture Recovery: Complete Guide to Bone Healing and Rehabilitation
A complete guide to fracture recovery covering the bone healing process, immobilisation phases, rehabilitation exercises, and return to activity.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
1. Bone healing occurs in three phases: inflammatory, reparative, and remodelling2. Immobilisation is essential for healing but causes muscle weakness and stiffness3. Rehabilitation after cast removal is as important as bone healing itself4. Nutrition plays a critical role in bone healing - calcium, vitamin D, and protein
A fracture is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. While the bone heals naturally over time, proper rehabilitation is essential to restore full function, strength, and mobility. This guide covers the entire recovery journey from injury to full activity.
The Bone Healing Process
Bone healing occurs in three overlapping phases. Inflammatory phase (days 1-5): a blood clot forms around the fracture site and inflammatory cells clean up damaged tissue. Reparative phase (weeks 2-6): soft callus forms, then hardens into woven bone. Remodelling phase (months to years): woven bone is remodelled into strong, organised bone.
Immobilisation Phase
During immobilisation (cast or splint), the priority is protecting the healing bone. However, immobilisation causes muscle atrophy, joint stiffness, and reduced circulation. Physiotherapy during this phase focuses on maintaining movement in uninjured joints, reducing swelling, and preventing complications.
Post-Cast Rehabilitation
When the cast is removed, the joint is often stiff, weak, and swollen. Rehabilitation focuses on regaining range of motion, reducing swelling, strengthening surrounding muscles, and improving function. This phase takes 4-12 weeks depending on the fracture and patient factors.
Return to Full Activity
Return to sport or heavy activities typically requires 3-6 months for upper extremity fractures and 4-8 months for lower extremity fractures. Bone remodelling continues for months to years, so gradual loading is important.
Book an Appointment at Actilife Physiotherapy
If you are recovering from a fracture, our physiotherapists can help you regain strength and mobility. Contact us for a personalised rehabilitation plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dr. Manisha Sachdeva
Physiotherapist at Actilife Physiotherapy · Updated 3 June 2026
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