Article

Lower extremity fractures, if not treated appropriately, can increase
the risk of morbidity. Partial weight-bearing after surgical repair is
recommended; however, current methods of partial weight-bearing may cause
excessive loads through the lower extremity. A new rehabilitation tool that uses
lower body positive-pressure is described, that may allow partial weight-bearing
while preventing excessive loads, thereby improving functional outcomes. METHODS:
A patient with multiple lower extremity fractures underwent a 6-month
rehabilitation programme using bodyweight support technology 3 times per week,
post-surgery. RESULTS:
The patient experienced a reduction in pain and an
improvement in ankle range of motion (p=0.002), walking speed (p>0.05) and
physical function (p=0.004), as assessed by the Foot and Ankle Module of the
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Lower Limb Outcomes Assessment
Instrument. Training did not appear to affect fracture healing, as was evident on
radiograph. The effect of lower body positive-pressure on effusion, which has not
previously been reported in the literature, was also investigated. No significant
difference in effusion of the foot and ankle when using lower body
positive-pressure was found. CONCLUSION: Initial results suggest that this new
technology may be a useful rehabilitation tool that allows partial weight-bearing
during the treatment of lower extremity injuries.

Langue : ANGLAIS