University of Virginia
The aim of this study is to compare standard post operative rehabilitation with a simplified wooden block stretching protocol that will yield similar results.
Ankle fractures and pilon fractures represent common injuries in orthopedics. These injuries are addressed with re-aligning the bones with surgery, and in some particular cases, they are treated closed reduction and immobilization during healing. The trauma to the ankle as a result of the injury, the prolonged immobilization in a cast or splint and the scar tissue formed during surgery often lead to post injury and post-operative stiffness. Many patients have limited ability to flex the ankle upward (dorsiflexion) following cast or splint removal for these injuries. Physical therapy and rehabi…
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 18-65 * Surgically treated open or closed fractures of the ankle or tibial plafond Exclusion Criteria: * Contralateral lower extremity injuries that would limit weight bearing after 6 weeks * Severe injury requiring flap coverage or vascular reconstruction (Gustilo-Anderson Type IIIB and C respectively) * Neurological deficits that would impede ability to stand safely unassisted for home exercise regiment * Desire to participate in formal physical therapy program * Additional injury that would compromise subjects ability to follow either Home Exercise Program * No…
Individuals randomized to this group will be given a wooden block at no cost to them and a simplified version of home, self-guided exercises with instructions on how to do the exercises and how often to do so.
Individuals randomized to this group will receive the standard formal physical therapy which are sessions run by a physical therapist, usually 2-3 times a week to rehabilitate their ankle OR follow a standardized home exercise program which will be done by yourself with exercise outlined with how they should be performed and how often
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