Elbow Fracture - Post Surgery. Joint?

Personalised physiotherapy plan will only help in any type of post surgery cases Ignorance to a good rehab will lead to pain, less range to motion.

Visit a good exercise based physio for improving range

Here’s a personalized physiotherapy plan for your father after his olecranon fracture surgery, developed by Dr. Rajesh Pal: --- Dear Patient, Recovery after an olecranon fracture with K-wire fixation requires a carefully structured physiotherapy program to restore strength and range of motion (ROM) without straining the surgical site. Is Physiotherapy Possible with the K-wire In Place? Yes, physiotherapy can be safely started even while the K-wire is in place. However, it will primarily focus on gentle mobilization and strengthening surrounding muscles to avoid stiffness and muscle atrophy. Care must be taken to avoid excessive force that could interfere with bone healing. --- Physiotherapy Plan Phase 1: Gentle Mobilization (Weeks 3–6 Post-Surgery) Goals: Maintain joint mobility, prevent stiffness, and reduce swelling. Exercises: 1. Passive Range of Motion (PROM) With assistance, gently bend and straighten the elbow within pain-free limits. Perform 10–15 repetitions, 2–3 times daily. 2. Wrist and Hand Movements Perform wrist flexion/extension and grip strengthening exercises using a stress ball or soft sponge. 3. Shoulder Exercises Shoulder pendulum exercises and gentle arm raises to maintain shoulder mobility. 4. Isometric Contractions Perform isometric biceps and triceps contractions by holding tension without moving the elbow. --- Phase 2: Progressive Strengthening (Weeks 7–12 Post-Surgery) Goals: Regain muscle strength, restore joint function. Exercises: 1. Active Range of Motion (AROM) Actively bend and straighten the elbow. Gradually increase range as tolerated. 2. Light Resistance Exercises Use a resistance band or light weights (500 g to 1 kg) to strengthen biceps and triceps. 3. Supination/Pronation Hold a light stick and rotate the forearm (palm up and down). Perform 10 repetitions, 2–3 times daily. --- Phase 3: Full Functional Recovery (Weeks 12 and Beyond) Goals: Achieve full ROM, improve strength, and restore functional ability. Exercises: 1. Dynamic Resistance Gradually increase resistance for biceps curls and triceps extensions. 2. Weight-Bearing Activities Start with mild weight-bearing exercises such as leaning on a table. 3. Daily Activities Practice Simulate real-life movements like reaching, lifting, or pushing. --- How Long Will Full Recovery Take? Recovery to regain full strength and joint mobility usually takes 4–6 months, depending on: 1. The extent of the fracture and healing progress. 2. Consistency with physiotherapy exercises. 3. The body’s response to rehabilitation. --- Important Notes: 1. Monitor Pain: If any exercise causes sharp pain or swelling, stop immediately and consult your physiotherapist. 2. Regular Follow-Ups: Attend follow-ups with your surgeon to assess the healing of the fracture and decide the timeline for K-wire removal. 3. Seek Supervision: Initially, physiotherapy should be conducted under professional guidance to ensure proper form and avoid complications. Next Steps: Book a session with me at PAL Physiotherapy Clinic, Gurgaon, to receive a personalized rehabilitation program. I’ll guide your father through every step of recovery. Warm regards, Dr. Rajesh Pal Physiotherapist & Pain Management Expert

It is common for patients with olecranon fractures treated with K-wires to undergo physiotherapy even before the wires are removed. Controlled and guided physiotherapy can help maintain joint mobility, prevent stiffness, and promote healing. However, it is crucial to follow your surgeon's and physiotherapist's advice, as the timing and type of exercises depend on the stability of the fracture and the healing progress.

Consult with the treating orthopedic surgeon to confirm if physiotherapy can begin now. If approved, schedule sessions with a qualified physiotherapist experienced in post-surgical rehabilitation for elbow fractures. Focus on gentle range-of-motion (ROM) exercises initially, avoiding any weight-bearing or resistance activities until the fracture is fully healed.

Follow-Up: Regular follow-ups with the surgeon are necessary to monitor the healing and adjust the rehabilitation plan accordingly. Patience: Full recovery, including regaining arm strength and joint mobility, may take 4–6 months or longer, depending on the individual’s healing rate.

Yes, the exercises can be done with K wire, but need to do under expert supervision. Kindly consult with nearby physiotherapist for proper exercises.

Hello! I'm glad you asked about your father's recovery process after his elbow surgery for an olecranon fracture.Physiotherapy with K-Wire In Place Yes, physiotherapy can be beneficial even with the K-wire still in place. However, it's crucial that exercises are done under the guidance of a physical therapist to ensure they are safe and appropriate

Pendulum Swings: Have your father lean forward with the arm hanging down. Gently swing the arm back and forth, side to side, and in circles. This is more for shoulder mobility but can help with elbow ROM indirectly. Elbow Flexion/Extension: While seated or standing, your father can use his uninjured hand to help bend and straighten the elbow, focusing on increasing the range gently over time. Pronation and Supination: With the elbow bent at 90 degrees and supported on a table, rotate the forearm (palm up to palm down). This can be done passively at first and then actively as strength returns. If you want further contact us .

Greetings from Rid of Pain Physiotherapy Yes, you can start physiotherapy with k wire. It will depend on the current status about how much time it will take like range of motion, strength of muscles etc. Only exercises can help in recovery at your own end but choose the physiotherapy for faster and better recovery.

hello start with an physiotherapy immediately to avoid restriction of joint movement under supervision of physiotherapist only strengthenimg can be done once pain subsides

Hello, Thank you for reaching out and sharing details about your father’s recovery. Based on the information provided, physiotherapy can often begin even while the K-wire is in place, but the exercises must be carefully selected and performed under professional guidance to avoid putting undue stress on the healing site.

I highly recommend consulting a physiotherapist for a personalized exercise plan that aligns with your father’s current condition and post-surgery protocols. At Health Plus Physiotherapy Clinic in Marunji Road, Hinjewadi, Pune, we specialize in post-surgical rehabilitation and can provide tailored physiotherapy care to ensure a safe and effective recovery. Feel free to contact us at +91 63777 76377 to schedule a consultation or visit our website at healthplusphysiotherapyclinic.com. We would be happy to assist your father on his recovery journey. Wishing him a smooth and speedy recovery! Best regards, Dr. Divya Sharma Health Plus Physiotherapy Clinic

Please do visit a physiotherapist. Elbow extension is usually an issue after this...

Hi. Yes you can start the Physiotherapy immediately for full ROM exercise.

Elbow joint flexion and extension active and passive movement.

But to take help from  qualified experienced Physio.

Yes you can start with the exercises. Gentle elbow exercises can be started including pendular movements.Also include shoulder and wrist strengthening

Start with the exercises .Also visit physiotherapist to start with the therapist

Be gentle while doing exercises. Gradual progression.