Leg fractures are common in accidents involving sudden impact or force. In many cases, the injury doesn’t end with a cast or surgery. Recovery often includes rehabilitation to help restore strength, mobility and function.
Are some fractures more serious than others, and when might rehabilitation be required?
Accidents that can cause leg fractures
Car accidents are one of the most frequent causes of leg fractures. The force of a collision can break bones in the thigh, shin or lower leg. Falls from stairs, uneven pavement or icy surfaces also cause many of these injuries. In severe cases, the bone may break in multiple places or pierce the skin.
Not all fractures are the same
Some fractures are minor and heal with rest. Others are more complex and involve damage to nearby tissue or nerves. A clean break may require only a few weeks of recovery, while a displaced or open fracture can take months. Fractures to larger bones, like the femur, usually take longer to heal than fractures in smaller bones such as the fibula.
Nerve damage and soft tissue injury can make recovery more difficult. Swelling, numbness and reduced movement may continue even after the bone has healed.
Rehabilitation focuses on rebuilding strength and improving movement. After a fracture, muscles can weaken and joints may become stiff. Physical therapy helps the leg return to normal function, starting with gentle exercises and progressing to walking and climbing stairs.
Some people recover quickly. Others need ongoing support to regain full use of the leg. Rehabilitation plays an important role in preventing long-term issues and supporting a steady recovery. If you have suffered serious injuries after an incident that wasn’t your fault, you should explore your legal options.