Comparison of the results of short-term rigid and semi-rigid cast immobilization for the treatment of grade 3 inversion injuries of the ankle.
In this prospective, randomized study, short-term immobilization with semi-rigid (Soft Cast) and rigid (Scotchcast Plus) synthetic cast materials were compared for the functional treatment of acute grade 3 lateral ligament injuries of the ankle. Degree of ligament injury was assessed by clinical criteria. Duration of immobilization was 2 weeks for both groups and home physiotherapy was started thereafter. Fifty-seven patients completed the study and both materials were found to be equally effective in providing a stable ankle at the end of 6 weeks follow-up. Soft Cast group had better range of motion and could walk better at 2 weeks, but these differences diminished at 6 weeks. With the Soft Cast, patient satisfaction was higher, need for a support for walking was less and return to work was earlier. When combined with the reduced cost of application, Soft Cast is the material of choice for the initial short-term immobilization for the functional treatment of acute ankle ligament injuries.
Avci
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S
Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, Fatih University, Ankara, Turkey. avcisinan@hotmail.com
Sayli
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D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016512:Ankle Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000628:therapy*; D002370:Casts, Surgical; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007103:Immobilization; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome