Bad elbow fracture - too late for physio?

[Foreverbaffled]

I very badly fractured my elbow 5 months ago. I managed to sheer off the front and back of my humerus whilst also breaking off the end of my ulna. It was operated on and put back together very well. All the NHS physio arranged post operatively was cancelled due to Covid (totally understandable) and after a telephone call I’ve been discharged. I’ve been ploughing on with the few exercises I was emailed over but still have terrible joint stiffness and my ability to straighten my elbow is very impaired.

I’d like to go ahead and pay for private physio now lockdown is easing but have I left it too late? I’ve read horror stories online about how scar tissue will have now matured and there is nothing I can do to “break” that down without surgery.

Just wondered if anyone had any experience or advice? I’m due to see the consultant again in September. Thanks.

Not an exact parallel, but I fractured my humerus 17 years ago, 12 weeks in a brace, repaired with a plate, became infected, plate removed, mobility restricted. And I am still surprised to find I can do some things I previously couldn't do. So no, not too late - give it your best shot!

Thanks @vicarlady, that’s really reassuring. Recovery clearly is never ending 🙂

Another bit of advice given to me by a very good physio was not to make adaptations too quickly. For instance, it was my left arm and I was tempted to change my car to an automatic as gear changing was difficult. He encouraged me not to do this and have driving as a goal. I found having goals was important. On the other hand, even now I don't buy any dress or top with a back fastening!

That is good advice as it’s easy to just use the other arm etc because it’s easier! It’s funny as I was thinking the same about cars but think I need to persevere a bit longer.. I contacted a physio yesterday so hopefully I’ll hear something today and we can get started.