Postoperative treatment of metacarpal fractures-Classical physical therapy compared with a home exercise program.

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.