What happens after a fracture repair?
Broken bones and other traumatic injuries are often repaired with plates, pins or external fixators. While the bone heals, the surrounding muscles shrink and nearby joints can stiffen, which can slow a dog's return to normal use of the leg.
Common situations
- Recovery after fracture surgery
- Injuries from falls or being hit by a car
- Joint dislocations and ligament damage
- Slow return to normal limb use
How rehab helps
- Keeps nearby joints moving during healing
- Encourages safe, gradual weight-bearing
- Rebuilds strength lost during confinement
- Shockwave may support healing in selected cases
What to expect in rehab for Fracture repair
Early sessions focus on comfort and keeping the joints above and below the fracture moving. As recheck X-rays show the bone healing, we add weight-bearing and strengthening exercises, progressing only as fast as healing allows. The goal is a strong, fully used limb rather than one your dog favors.
Learn more about Fracture repair
- Information for Animal Owners · American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation
Is rehab right for your dog?
Request a rehabilitation evaluation with our team.
Emergency? South 40 offers 24/7 emergency care. Please call ahead at (979) 977-0711.
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Medically reviewed by Gonzales, MS, DVM, CCRP · Last reviewed October 2026. This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis. Every dog is different. Please talk with your veterinarian about your dog's specific condition and treatment plan. External links lead to independent organizations and open in a new tab.