Tibial Plateau Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery
Tibial Plateau Fracture, also known as a broken shinbone, is a common injury that occurs in the upper part of the tibia, the larger bone in the lower leg. This type of fracture typically occurs due to high-energy trauma, such as a car accident or a fall from a height. It can also result from low-energy trauma in individuals with weakened bones, such as older adults or those with osteoporosis.
The tibial plateau is a critical weight-bearing area that helps stabilize the knee joint. When a fracture occurs in this region, it can disrupt the alignment of the knee joint and cause significant pain, swelling, and difficulty in bearing weight. Depending on the severity of the fracture, it may require surgical intervention, such as the placement of screws or plates, to realign the bones and promote proper healing.
Recovery from a tibial plateau fracture can be a lengthy process, involving physical therapy and rehabilitation to restore strength, mobility, and function in the affected leg. With proper medical care and adherence to rehabilitation protocols, most individuals can regain their pre-injury level of activity and return to their normal daily routine.
