Bone Healing After A Fracture: Physiotherapy & Recovery

While bones naturally repair, physiotherapy plays a vital role in restoring strength, mobility, and function after a fracture. In this blog we will explain how bones heal and how physiotherapy can support a safe recovery.

How Long Does a Fracture Take to Heal?

Bone healing time varies depending on the type and location of the fracture, age, and overall health. Most fractures heal within 6–12 weeks, but full recovery, including strength and movement can take longer. Physiotherapy helps optimise healing and reduces the risk of long-term complications through hands on treatment and personalised rehabilitation plan.

The 3 Stages of Bone Healing After a Fracture

• Inflammatory Phase (Initial 7 Days)

  Immediately after a fracture, the body triggers inflammation to protect the injured area.

  • Swelling, pain, and bruising are common

  • A blood clot forms around the fracture site

  • Movement is naturally limited

  Physiotherapy focus:
  Pain relief, swelling management, and gentle movement of surrounding joints to prevent stiffness and circulation issues.

• Reparative Phase (1–6 Weeks)

  During this phase, the body forms new bone tissue.

  • A soft callus develops and hardens over time

  • Pain gradually reduces

  • The bone is still vulnerable to stress

  Physiotherapy focus:
  Maintaining muscle strength, improving joint mobility, and guiding safe exercises without compromising bone healing.

• Remodeling Phase (6 Weeks+)

  The new bone reshapes and strengthens in response to movement and load.

  • Bone becomes stronger and more resilient

  • Function and confidence improve

  • Return to normal activities may begin

  Physiotherapy focus:
  Progressive loading, strength training, balance exercises, and functional rehabilitation to return to work, sport, and daily life.

Factors That Can Slow Bone Healing

Several factors influence how a bone heals:

• Age

• Poor nutrition (low calcium, vitamin D, or protein)

• Smoking

• Reduced blood supply

• Complex or displaced fractures

• Delayed or inadequate rehabilitation/movement

When Should Physiotherapy Start After a Fracture?

Physiotherapy after a fracture helps to:

• Restore full range of motion

• Rebuild muscle strength and endurance

• Improve balance and coordination

• Improve client confidence with daily, sports and work related duties

Physiotherapy can ensure that healing translates into movement, strength, and improved confidence. A personalised guided rehabilitation exercise and hands on treatment plan can help you return to normal activities safely and reduce the chance of long-term pain or disability.

Physiotherapy can often begin within days of a fracture, even while the bone is immobilised. Early rehabilitation focuses on maintaining strength and movement in unaffected areas, which can lead to better long-term outcomes.

Following successful fracture healing and positive X-Ray results, many people may still experience:

• Joint stiffness

• Muscle weakness

• Reduced balance

• Reduced confidence using the joint/body area

• Ongoing pain or fear of movement