PT with half leg cast

Our user asked: "Hi, I had a closed undisplaced tibia fracture in January this year.I was on full leg cast for 10 weeks and am on half leg cast since past 2 weeks. Due to long leg cast , my knee has become stiff.It is much better then what it was when the full leg cast was removed.The OS said that it will eventually get better.He did not suggest any PT.The bone has not united completely.But the doctor has asked me to start partial weigh bearing. My question is : Is there any exercise that I can do to stretch my leg as normal.My leg is still bent while I walk on crutches. Thank You !"

Ask a PT Response: "Since your fracture hasn't completely healed yet great care should be taken to avoid any further injury. For my patients who I see that are in a half leg cast, I would have them perform various exercises such as straight leg raises, quad sets, short arch quads, long arch quads in sitting, ham curls in sitting, sidelying hip abduction, etc. to help them maintain range of motion and strength. Although your surgeon didn't suggest PT, I would still check with him to see if you can participate in PT as rehab should help accelerate your recovery especially when your cast is removed and you are allow to bear weight fully. Best of luck to you."