How long does physiotherapy take to work for stress fracture?

A stress fracture is an overload injury in bone. Physiotherapy is not usually about exercising through the early painful phase; the first priority is protecting the area and following the clinician's weight-bearing or impact guidance. The start date and pace depend on the bone involved, tenderness, symptoms during walking, and evidence that loading can safely increase.

Once rehabilitation begins, early goals may include restoring comfortable range of motion and strength without provoking the fracture site. Later stages add balance, walking or running drills, and the specific demands of work or sport. A quiet day does not by itself confirm readiness for impact.

Do not restart running, jumping, or heavy loading until the treating clinician gives you a progression plan. Complete only the approved exercises, use pain and next-day symptoms as feedback, and increase one activity at a time. Support recovery with suitable footwear, rest between loading sessions, and attention to factors your clinician identifies.

If pain returns at the fracture site, walking becomes more uncomfortable, or soreness lasts longer after progression, step back to the last comfortable level and contact the treating team.

Seek review for focal pain that is worsening, pain at rest or at night, swelling, a limp, or renewed tenderness after activity. Obtain prompt assessment if you cannot bear weight or if a sudden injury causes severe pain around the affected bone.

Has my injury reached the stage where physiotherapy and increased loading are appropriate? What symptoms should stop a progression? Which walking, strength, and impact milestones must I meet before returning to my usual activity?