ORIF Treatment
ORIF, or Open Reduction Internal Fixation, is the surgery used to realign a broken bone and secure it with plates, screws or rods while it heals. Coming out of an ORIF procedure often means weeks in a cast or brace, and by the time that comes off, the joint and surrounding muscles can feel stiff, weak and unfamiliar to move.
Why ORIF Recovery Needs Physiotherapy
ORIF is most commonly carried out after fractures to the wrist, ankle, hip or leg, whether from a fall, a sports collision or a road traffic accident. The bone itself may heal well with the fixation in place, but the joints above and below often stiffen from being immobilised, and the surrounding muscles weaken from weeks of disuse. Similar rehab challenges come up after joint dislocations, where the joint has also been protected in one position for a prolonged period. Some people find their confidence in using the limb takes as long to rebuild as the strength does.
Our Treatment for ORIF Recovery
Once your surgeon has confirmed the fracture is stable enough to begin rehab, one of our physiotherapists will assess your range of movement, strength and any swelling before building a plan tailored to your stage of recovery. Treatment typically starts with gentle mobility work to restore movement in the stiffened joint, before progressing to strengthening exercises as the fixation allows. Physiotherapy is central to ORIF recovery, guiding you safely through each stage so the hardware isn’t put under strain too soon. Massage therapy can help reduce swelling and ease the tightness that builds up in the surrounding muscles, and sports therapy becomes useful later on for anyone looking to return to sport or more demanding physical activity.
Recovery timelines vary considerably depending on which bone was fixed and how the surgery went, but many people continue to see improvements in strength and movement for six to twelve months after their operation.
Why Choose True Physio?
Expert Physiotherapy Team
All of our Physiotherapists are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), which means that they fulfil the highest standards of practice required by law. They are also a part of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), demonstrating our commitment to delivering outstanding expertise.
Initial Assessment
At your initial assessment at True Physio, we will find out where your pain comes from and what your goal is before forming a plan to help you achieve that. Our clinicians will take the time to understand your condition, do a detailed assessment, and explain to you the nature of the problem you have. Treatment plans are created with your lifestyle in mind.
“Just finished my treatment at True Physio with Caitlin and she was absolutely amazing. After a broken ankle eight months ago, I’m able to exercise again and walk with no pain. Caitlin was super patient with me, gave me manageable exercises and always listened to my concerns.” Lucy – True Physio Sale
Book your appointment now or contact your nearest True Physio clinic to discuss how we can help.
