Tibial Spine Fracture and Physical Therapy Protocol

Introduction Tibial spine fracture (also called Tibial Eminence Fracture) is a break at the top of the tibia bone in the lower leg near the knee. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) attaches here. This type of injury is most common in children ages 8 to 14 years of age. It can occur during a sporting event or with a hyperextension injury.

This type of force causes the ACL to pull on the tibial spine. Because the bones of children this age still have open growth plates, the ACL is stronger than the tibial spine and can pull away from the bone (avulse), causing a fracture. This is a serious injury that requires treatment with casting or surgery