Expert Knee, Ankle & Post-Fracture Rehabilitation

This is the day one protocol for a comminuted talus fracture. We start with gentle mobilization of adjacent joints like the phalanges to manage swelling and begin activating muscles in the entire leg, like the quadriceps and glutes, to prepare for weight-bearing.

For a talus fracture, early weight-bearing is contraindicated due to the risk of avascular necrosis. Here, I explain the recovery protocol, which includes activating the glutes with bridging exercises to build support before we can safely start weight-bearing.

In any ankle fracture rehab, we don't rush to weight-bearing. First, we must strengthen the large supporting muscles like the quadriceps and hamstrings. If these muscles are weak, the risk of re-injury is very high.

Extension lag is a common issue after ACL surgery, causing a limp. I use posterior glide mobilizations and terminal knee extension exercises to help the patient regain full straightening of the leg, which is crucial for a normal walking pattern.

Post-fracture mobilization is one of my favorite parts of physiotherapy because the results are so rewarding. Here I am performing elbow mobilization for an olecranon fracture patient using a Mulligan belt. His range improved significantly in just five sessions.

This patient, an aspiring powerlifter, had an elbow fracture. Proper rehabilitation is critical to regain full joint mobility and muscle strength. I am using tactile cues by tapping the skin to improve neuromuscular feedback and muscle activation during his exercises.

This patient had a fracture of the first metacarpophalangeal joint. Since the stitches are still fresh, I am working on the adjacent wrist joint to manage post-fracture stiffness and pain without disturbing the healing area.

This patient came to me on crutches after an ankle injury. We worked on strength, mobility, and balance, and then progressed to functional rehab, which for him meant getting back on his scooter for his livelihood. Physiotherapy is about getting your life back.

This patient came to me six months after a tibia fracture with extreme knee pain because his doctor just gave him two basic exercises. After proper rehab, he is finally on the road to a real recovery. Don't let bad advice delay your healing.