Knee Fracture
Date issued: July 2025
For review: July 2027
Ref: A-408/MY/Physiotherapy/Fractures of the knee v3
PDF: Fractures of the knee.pdf [pdf] 379KB
Basic Anatomy
The four main bones within the knee joint are the femur, patella, tibia, and fibula. These bones are connected by ligaments, muscles, and tendons.
Management
Treatment is dependent upon the type of fracture you have. You will be followed up in Fracture Clinic and may be referred to Physiotherapy Outpatients for on-going management.
Daily activities
You may find certain activities difficult due to pain or reduced mobility. The Occupational Therapist can assess and provide you with equipment to make these tasks easier.
You will probably be issued a walking aid (crutches or frame) and shown how to use these by the Physiotherapist.
You will not be allowed to drive with a cast or knee brace on, and you should contact the DVLA or visit the DVLA website for more information.
Following assessment, it may be agreed that you would benefit from additional support in the community. The Occupational Therapist can assist in arranging this for you.
Types of casts or braces:
Backslab:
This is a non-weight bearing cast which has a gap in the front of the cast to allow for swelling. As it is a non-weight bearing cast, you are unable to walk on the cast.
Cylinder POP/Dynacast:
In Fracture Clinic, if your swelling has reduced sufficiently, the doctor will remove your ‘backslab’ and apply a cast known as a ‘POP’ or dynacast.
BREG brace:
Depending on the location and type of your fracture you may be put into a BREG brace. The BREG brace can be set to allow a certain degree of movement at the knee or locked to keep it in one position.
Cricket pad splint:
Some types of fractures need the knee to be kept straight to heal, and this is a type of splint that may be used.
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The doctor will inform you of your weight bearing status.
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Usually, you are discharged home with a walking aid and a Fracture Clinic follow up within 1-2 weeks.
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It normally takes approximately 6 weeks for your fracture to heal, but this does vary depending on the individual.
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It is important to keep your leg elevated when at rest to reduce swelling.
Exercises to maintain range of movement while knee is immobilised (view PDF for images):
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Ankle pumps
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Hip abduction/adduction
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Straight leg raise
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Glute squeeze
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
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Increasing or severe pain not controlled with medication.
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Numbness, pins and needles, or loss of sensation in the foot or lower leg.
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Cold, pale, or blue toes (possible circulation problem).
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Signs of infection (if there's a wound or surgical site): redness, warmth, pus, or fever.
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Sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (could indicate a blood clot).
