Controlled Active Motion vs Early Passive Mobilization for Flexor Tendons Repair

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Controlled Active Motion and Early Passive Mobilization Protocols for Rehabilitation of Repaired Flexor Tendons in Zone II

a randomized controlled trial tends to compare 2 rehabilitation approaches - early passive mobilization (EPM) and controlled active motion (CAM) - that are commonly used in the treatment of post-surgical flexor tendon repair of the hand

a randomized controlled trial tends to compare 2 rehabilitation approaches commonly used in the treatment of post-surgical flexor tendon repair of the hand. in this study, the authors try to fill the gap in the literature regarding the more effective approach. the comparisons between both approaches were scarce in previous literature.

Participants will be randomly allocated to one of two treatment groups: early passive mobilization (EPM) using a modified Kleinert protocol or controlled active motion (CAM) using a modified Duran technique (n=20). Patients were assessed at baseline and then at the 6th and 12th weeks of interventions to quantify total active motion (TAM) of the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints using goniometry, and grip strength with dynamometry. the disability level will be assessed using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire.

Inclusion Criteria:

• males or females
• between 25-50 years
• Post-surgical repair of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) and superficialis (FDS) tendons of a single-digit
• the case should be recent (2-3 days post-surgical)

Exclusion Criteria:

• age below 25 or above 50
• a systemic disease affecting hand joints such as rheumatic arthritis
• thumb flexor tendon repair will be excluded
• chronic cases
• concurrent injuries such as phalangeal fractures, joint injuries, or significant skin loss