ORIF Patella

What is ORIF of the Patella?

ORIF (Open Reduction and Internal Fixation) of the patella is a surgical procedure used to realign and stabilise a fractured kneecap.

During surgery:

• The bone fragments are repositioned (open reduction)
• Screws, wires, or plates are used to stabilise them (internal fixation)

This is required when:

• The fracture is displaced
• The knee joint is unstable
• Conservative treatment is not sufficient

Understanding the Patella (Kneecap)

The patella:

• Is located at the front of the knee
• Sits within the quadriceps tendon
• Helps improve knee extension (straightening)

Injuries to the patella can affect:

• Walking and weight-bearing
• Knee bending and straightening
• Overall leg strength

How Do Patella Fractures Happen?

Common causes include:

• Direct impact (fall onto the knee)
• Sudden forceful contraction of the quadriceps
• Sports injuries or accidents

People often describe:

• “fell on my knee and now can’t straighten it”
• “knee pain when trying to walk”
• “cannot bend knee properly after injury”

Symptoms (Real-World Search Intent)

• Pain at the front of the knee
• Swelling and bruising
• Difficulty walking
• Inability to straighten the leg
• Reduced range of movement

When is ORIF Needed?

• Non-displaced fractures → treated conservatively
• Displaced fractures → require ORIF

Surgery helps:

• Restore alignment
• Improve knee stability
• Prevent long-term dysfunction

Symptoms After Patella ORIF

After surgery, you may experience:

• Pain and swelling
• Stiffness in the knee
• Reduced movement
• Weakness in the quadriceps

You may:

• Use a knee brace
• Begin early passive movement
• Use crutches with partial weight-bearing
• Avoid driving for ~6 weeks

Physiotherapy After Patella ORIF

Physiotherapy is essential to restore knee movement, strength, and walking ability.

At 👉 acephysiosport.com your rehabilitation is structured in phases.

Weeks 1–4 (Early Phase)

Focus: pain control and early mobility

• Pain and swelling management
• Passive range-of-motion exercises
• Gentle quadriceps activation
• Protection of the knee

Weeks 5–8 (Mobility & Strength Phase)

Focus: improving movement and stability

• Gait re-education (walking pattern)
• Balance and proprioception training
• Strengthening knee muscles
• Increasing range of motion

Weeks 8–12 (Advanced Rehab)

Focus: restoring full function

• Full weight-bearing progression
• Improving knee stability and tracking
• Strength and endurance training
• Increasing walking distance

3 Months+ (Return to Activity)

Focus: full recovery and performance

• Sport- or activity-specific exercises
• Jogging and higher-level activities
• Advanced strengthening

Recovery & Long-Term Outcomes

With proper physiotherapy:

• Knee strength improves
• Movement returns
• Walking becomes normal

Typical recovery:

• 3 months or longer depending on severity

Without rehab:

• Knee stiffness
• Weak quadriceps
• Reduced function and performance

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports in Singapore

If you are looking for patella ORIF physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help.

• Expertise in knee and post-surgical rehab
• Personalised recovery programmes
• Focus on restoring full knee function
• Evidence-based physiotherapy care
• Conveniently located near East Coast Road

We help you return to pain-free walking, sport, and daily activities.

Book Appointment

If you have undergone patella ORIF surgery, early physiotherapy is essential for optimal recovery.

Book your session now: 👉 acephysiosport.com 📞 +65 81535374

Start your recovery with expert physiotherapy in Singapore.