Gülke J, Leopold B, Grözinger D, Drews B, Paschke S, Wachter NJ. Postoperative treatment of metacarpal fractures-Classical physical therapy compared with a home exercise program.
J Hand Ther 2019;
31:20-28. [PMID:
28438435 DOI:
10.1016/j.jht.2017.02.005]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2016] [Revised: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN
Prospective cohort randomized controlled trial.
PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
Is either a home exercise (HE) program or traditional physical therapy (PT) more effective in the postoperative management of metacarpal fractures?
METHODS
Sixty patients suffering from nonthumb metacarpal fractures who received mobilization-stable open reduction and internal fixation were included. All patients were prospectively randomized into either the PT group or the HE group. Follow-up examinations at 2, 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively.
RESULTS
After 2 weeks, the range of motion (ROM) in both groups was still severely reduced. Twelve weeks after surgery the ROM improved to 245° (PT) and 256° (HE). Grip strength after 6 weeks was 68% (PT) and 71% (HE) when compared to the non-injured hand, improving to 91% (PT) and 93% (HE) after 12 weeks.
CONCLUSION
Study results show that both HE program and traditional PT are effective in the postoperative management of metacarpal fractures.
LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
II.
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