Simplified rehabilitation for ankle and pilon fractures

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study compares standard post-operative rehabilitation with a simplified wooden block stretching protocol for patients recovering from ankle and pilon fractures. The goal is to determine if the simplified approach can achieve similar functional outcomes as traditional rehabilitation methods. The study focuses on addressing post-injury stiffness and improving the range of motion in dorsiflexion, which is crucial for daily activities. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the wooden block protocol or a formal physical therapy/home exercise program.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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
* Non ambulatory prior to injury
* Previous ankle or tibial plafond injury on ipsilateral extremity
* BMI \> 50
* Severe problems maintaining follow up
* Previous ankle/tibial plafond fracture
* Prisoners
* Neurological impairments that impair balance

Where it's running

• University of Virginia Medical Center
  Charlottesville, Virginia, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Seth Yarboro, MD — University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgey
• Study coordinator: Eric McVey, MEd
• Email: edm9u@hscmail.mcc.virginia.edu
• Phone: 434.243.5382

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.