Tibial plateau fracture

[nhaddad2002]

Hi..this is my 3rd week after ORIF for a tibial plateau fracture..my doc wants me to move the knee..i am able to get to 40 degrees but not more..it feels so tight along with pain...is it arthrifibrosis or muscle spasm...what is the solution for this...can physical therapy alone solve the issue...am using a knee brace... unlocked... I did 60 deg today...I am supposed to be NWb for 3 months...can any one explain why i feel this tightining and pain when i get to 50-60 deg and i cant go anymore???
I am an obgyn and i need to be on my leg by aug 15 and be able to do surgery..I am over optimistic?

[jvolner]

I'm surprised that they r allowing u to bend ur knee before weight bearing. I was not allowed that until after I started weight bearing. Just make sure to take it easy, right now your healing process is crucial. I'm also surprised that they have your brace completely open. Don't try to bend your leg any farther then what it allows without pain. I had mine in March of 2012. I had bone reconstruction, steal plate, and 12 screws put into my leg. I know run, walk without a limp, climb stairs, and many more things. Sure there is still things I'm learning to do, but I will learn, just like you will. Don't give up hope.

[abhijeet v ghosh]

hi nhaddad,
don't be too apprehensive. i hope your hospital will be having a CPM machine. I mean Continous passive mobilization (CPM). If yes, then request for that machine, so that stiffness will be tackled properly.
If you get 90 + range of motion within 3 months of your knee surgery, then it will be considered as an excellent result.
Aug 15, may be good enough time for you to stand properly, but long surgeries, is too much opimistic.
regards