Scaphoid Fracture Fixation Physiotherapy Brisbane Southside

Rehabilitating After Scaphoid Fracture Fixation: How Physiotherapy Can Help
At our Brisbane-based physiotherapy clinic, we provide tailored rehabilitation for individuals recovering from scaphoid fracture fixation. Our goal is to restore wrist function, prevent complications, and help you regain confidence in daily activities or sports. With personalised physiotherapy sessions and complementary services like Clinical Pilates, we are here to guide you through every stage of recovery.

Why is physiotherapy important after scaphoid fracture fixation?
Physiotherapy is essential for recovering wrist strength, mobility, and functionality after surgery. It helps to:

• Restore joint mobility: Reduce stiffness and improve the range of motion in the wrist and hand.
• Regain strength: Targeted exercises rebuild muscles that may have weakened during immobilisation.
• Prevent complications: Physiotherapy reduces the risk of chronic stiffness, pain, or reduced wrist functionality.
• Reintegrate function: Retrain your hand and wrist for everyday tasks or sport-specific activities.

What precautions should be taken after scaphoid fracture fixation?

• Follow post-surgical immobilisation guidelines: Wear your cast or splint as prescribed to stabilise the wrist and allow the bone to heal properly.
• Avoid weight-bearing activities: Do not lift heavy objects or put pressure on the wrist until cleared by your physiotherapist.
• Gradually reintroduce movement: Avoid pushing through pain or forcing movements too early in the recovery process.
• Maintain general fitness: Engage in exercises for the rest of the body to prevent deconditioning while protecting the wrist.

What is the recovery time for scaphoid fracture fixation?
Recovery timelines can vary, but typical milestones include:

• 0–6 weeks: Initial healing phase while immobilised, focusing on pain and swelling management.
• 6–12 weeks: Begin gentle physiotherapy to regain range of motion and reduce stiffness.
• 3–6 months: Progress to strengthening exercises and functional tasks.
• 6–12 months: Achieve full return to sports or demanding activities, depending on the severity of the fracture.

When can I start using my wrist after scaphoid fracture fixation?

• Light, pain-free wrist movements often begin around 6–8 weeks post-surgery, depending on your surgeon’s clearance and the success of the healing process.
• Functional use of the wrist without restrictions may take 3–6 months.

What exercises can you do after scaphoid fracture fixation?
Physiotherapy exercises progress in stages:

• Early stages:
  • Finger and thumb mobility exercises to maintain hand dexterity.
  • Passive wrist movements as guided by your physiotherapist.
• Mid-stages:
  • Wrist flexion and extension stretches.
  • Forearm rotation (supination/pronation) exercises.
  • Light resistance training with therapy bands or light weights.
• Later stages:
  • Grip-strengthening exercises with stress balls or putty.
  • Functional tasks like picking up objects or typing.
  • Sport-specific drills for athletes.

What other physiotherapy treatments can assist recovery?

• Manual therapy:
  • Soft tissue mobilisation to reduce stiffness in the wrist and surrounding muscles.
  • Joint mobilisations to restore wrist and thumb flexibility.
• Scar management: Techniques to prevent adhesions and improve skin mobility around the surgical site.
• Swelling control: Use of cryotherapy, compression, and lymphatic massage to manage post-operative swelling.
• Strength and proprioception training: Focused exercises to enhance wrist stability and coordination.
• Clinical Pilates: Builds overall strength and alignment, supporting recovery and preventing compensatory movements.

How long does it take for swelling to go down after scaphoid surgery?
Swelling typically subsides significantly within the first 4–6 weeks post-surgery. Persistent swelling may require targeted physiotherapy interventions.

Are there long-term effects of scaphoid fracture fixation?
With proper rehabilitation, most individuals regain full wrist function. However, delayed treatment or incomplete rehab can lead to stiffness, weakness, or arthritis in severe cases.

Ready to Begin Your Recovery?
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how our expert physiotherapy team can support your recovery journey after scaphoid fracture fixation. Together, we’ll help you regain confidence in your wrist’s strength and functionality!

Have questions or want to make a booking? Call our friendly reception team 07 3706 3407 to book in to see one of our Tarragindi Physiotherapists or email us at [email protected]

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Who to book in with

Bethany Kippen
Physiotherapist.

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Mauricio Bara
Physiotherapist & Exercise Physiologist.

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