Effect of Early Weight Bearing on Rehabilitation Outcomes in Patients with Traumatic Ankle and Tibial Plateau Fractures
Roman Natoli, MD
Primary Investigator
Brief description of study
The purpose of this study is to compare the usual practice of bearing weight (“delayed weight bearing”) with weight bearing sooner in the healing process. We will use study data to determine if early weight bearing improves recovery after injury.
Detailed description of study
Researchers will review the medical record of participants for information related to their injury.
During the first post-operative clinic visit, patients will answer questions regarding their health, pre-injury activities, physical function, and pain. They will also undergo a clinical exam and then be randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: to begin weight bearing on the injured leg, or delay weight bearing (consistent with routine care).
Participants in the early weight bearing group will start putting as much weight on their injured leg as tolerable from that clinic visit onward. Participants will early weight bear while walking and doing exercises, as well as receive a set of exercises to do at home. These exercises include range of motion, stretching, and exercises to help walk.
Participants in the delayed weight group will follow routine care, keeping weight off the injured leg for at least 4 weeks for an ankle fracture or 12 weeks for a tibial plateau fracture.
Participants will return to the clinic at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months post-surgery to complete a clinical exam, x-ray, range or motion assessment, and surveys.
Researchers will follow up with participants one year after surgery.
Participants will receive $25 for completion of each study visit: the enrollment visit, and 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. Participants will receive $50 for completing a final a study visit 12 months after surgery.
Eligibility of study
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Conditions: fracture, ankle, tibial plateau
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Age: Between 18 Years - 65 Years
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Gender: All
Individuals between 18 and 65 years of age who have undergone surgery for an ankle fracture or tibial plateau fracture.
Individuals with osteoporosis, neuropathy, or other injuries or disorders that would affect the ability to bear weight will not be eligible.
