Treatment for Tibial Plateau Fractures at Encino Orthopedics

The tibial plateau is one of the most critical, loadbearing areas in the body. When the upper area of the shinbone - also called the tibia - fractures, it may cause improper knee alignment, instability, and a lack of range of motion. Injuries that cause tibial plateau fractures include falls from heights, or motor vehicle accidents. Even low-impact accidents may cause a tibial plateau fracture in older patients. A tibial plateau fracture can also occur over time, as daily stresses weaken the upper shinbone and result in small cracks that ultimately deepen and expand.

The symptoms of a tibial plateau fracture include: inability to bear weight or pain when attempting to do so, a tight and painful feeling surrounding the knee, inability to fully extend or bend the knee, a pale appearance and coolness in the associated foot, and/or numbness in the associate foot.

Treatment for tibial plateau fractures range from non-surgical to surgical methods, depending on the severity of the injury and the impact on surrounding soft tissues in the knee and lower leg. Non-surgical treatments determined by the orthopedic specialists at Encino Orthopedics require rest, an external brace, and sometimes physical therapy to restore a full range of motion. Surgical treatment for a tibial plateau fracture sometimes require surgical rods and/or plates to stabilize the area. Surgery for a tibial plateau fracture is typically followed by extensive physical therapy to strengthen the afflicted area.