A fractured patella, or broken kneecap, is a painful and debilitating injury that can significantly impact your mobility and ability to perform daily activities. Fortunately, physical therapy exercises can assist in recovering from a fractured patella, helping you regain strength and movement.
Here are some physical therapy exercises that may be recommended by your physiotherapist to aid in the recovery process:
- Quadriceps sets: Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Tighten the muscles in the front of your thigh and hold for 5-10 seconds, then release. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.
- Straight leg raises: Lie on your back with one leg straight and the other bent. Slowly raise your straight leg off the ground, keeping your knee straight, until it is at the same height as your bent knee. Hold for 5-10 seconds, then slowly lower your leg back down. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each leg.
- Heel slides: Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Slide your heel towards your buttocks, bending your knee, and then slide your heel back out. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each leg.
- Mini-squats: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a stable surface for support if needed. Slowly bend your knees, keeping your back straight, and lower yourself into a squatting position. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly rise back up to standing. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions.
- Hamstring curls: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold onto a stable surface for support if needed. Bend your knee, lifting your heel toward your buttocks, and then lower your leg back down. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each leg.
It’s important to note that these exercises should only be performed under the guidance of a physiotherapist and may need to be modified or progressed as your recovery advances. In addition to exercises, your physiotherapist may also use manual therapy techniques, such as massage and joint mobilizations, to aid in your recovery.
If you have recently suffered from a fractured patella, book an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists at Jockvale Massage & Physio to receive personalized treatment and a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to aid in your recovery. Our team is dedicated to helping you get back to your daily activities as quickly and safely as possible.
Contact us today to book your appointment and start your journey towards a successful recovery from your fractured patella. Our expert physiotherapists are ready to provide the guidance and support you need to overcome this challenging injury and return to your normal activities with confidence.