Telerehabilitation Following Ankle Fractures

Telerehabilitation Following Ankle Fractures: A Pilot Study

Background and Purpose: Ankle fractures represent one of the most common fractures in North America. Surgical fixation is often required in the presence of dislocation or instability and has been shown to have a high rate of success. Following surgical fixation, physical therapy is commonly utilized to assist in regaining function. Advice alone has been shown to be non-inferior to traditional physical therapy for patients post-ankle fracture in two studies. The results of these studies have yet to be repeated in the US. It is the intent of this study to investigate the feasibility of a large clinical trial comparing the results of traditional physical therapy and an internet-based telerehabilitation program. Following surgical repair of ankle fractures, patients will be randomized to traditional rehabilitation or telerehabilitation. Telerehabilitation may represent an alternative patient option to traditional physical therapy following ankle fracture repair. The results of this study will inform the design of larger multi-site clinical trials investigating the effectiveness of telerehabilitation for this patient population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Bimalleolar or trimalleolar fracture
• Repaired with open reduction internal fixation technique
• Must have access to computer, tablet, or smart phone with internet access

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe soft tissue damage associated with injury
• Physical or mental conditions that will affect patient's ability to participate in independent rehabilitation
• Non-English speaking