What to expect from physiotherapy for a stress fracture

A stress fracture is a bone injury caused by repeated loading. The location and severity affect how much weight-bearing is suitable. Your physiotherapist may ask about walking pain, footwear, training changes and daily demands, then coordinate the plan with the clinician managing the fracture. Early work can include safe range-of-motion exercises and strength for areas that are not stressing the injury. Progress is based on symptoms and clinical guidance.

Use crutches, a boot or other protection exactly as prescribed, and do not test the bone by adding impact early. Your home plan may progress from gentle strengthening to balance work, controlled weight-bearing and activity-specific drills. Keep a simple note of pain during walking and afterward. Tell your therapist about swelling, altered gait or pain that lingers, because these details help set the next safe step. Return to impact activities only after clearance.

Arrange prompt review for increasing pain at rest, rapidly worsening swelling, new numbness, pale or blue skin, unusual coldness, or inability to move the affected area normally. Seek urgent help after a new fall or direct blow, especially if the limb looks deformed. If symptoms fail to improve with the prescribed protection, your diagnosis and loading plan may need reassessment.

Ask when weight-bearing can change, which exercises are allowed now, how footwear affects loading, what signs indicate healing, and which test or examination will guide your return to sport.