Keywords
Physiotherapy
Rehabilitation
Postoperative care
Functionality
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Abstract
Objective: To describe the role of physiotherapy in the postoperative period of patients with tibial plateau fractures, emphasizing the main interventions used and their effects on functional recovery. Methods: This was an integrative literature review with a descriptive approach, conducted through searches in the PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, and PEDro databases. Original scientific articles published between 2021 and 2026, available in full text in Portuguese and English, and related to the proposed topic were included after the application of previously established eligibility criteria, resulting in a final sample of seven studies. Results: The analyzed studies demonstrated that physiotherapy in the postoperative period contributes to pain reduction, recovery of range of motion, muscle strengthening, and improvements in gait, balance, and functionality. Interventions such as early mobilization, progressive weight-bearing, proprioceptive training, muscle strengthening, and anti-gravity treadmill therapy showed positive rehabilitation outcomes, promoting efficient functional recovery and return to activities of daily living. Final considerations: Physiotherapeutic intervention proved to be relevant in the functional recovery process following tibial plateau fractures, contributing to improvements in functionality, independence, and quality of life. However, limited standardization of therapeutic protocols was observed in the literature, highlighting the need for further studies with greater methodological rigor and long-term follow-up.
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