Study Comparing Two Post-Surgery Immobilization Methods After Peroneal Tendon Injury Surgery Evaluating Patient Outcomes and Functional Recovery

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare two different recovery methods after surgery for peroneal tendon injuries in patients treated in Gothenburg, Sweden. Patients undergoing surgery due to peroneal tendon rupture, ligament rupture, or retinacle rupture will be randomly assigned to one of two postoperative immobilization protocols. The study evaluates the effects of these protocols on patient-reported outcomes and biomechanical function of both legs before and after surgery. Participants in one group will use a cast for 6 weeks following surgery, while those in the other group will have a cast for 3 weeks followed by an Air Stirrup brace for another 3 weeks. The second group will begin gentle, unloaded ankle motion after 3 weeks. Both groups are allowed to bear weight on the affected leg immediately after surgery. Evaluations will be conducted multiple times over a two-year period. Participants will undergo biomechanical assessments of ankle, knee, and hip movements during activities such as walking and running before surgery and at several points post-surgery. They will also complete questionnaires about their foot and ankle function and quality of life. Outcome measures include pain scores at multiple time points, calf circumference, range of motion, balance tests, electromyography, and various functional tests. The study will monitor participant progress for up to 24 months to assess recovery and quality of life changes.

Functional and Patient-reported Outcome After Peroneal Tendon Surgery and Different Immobilization Protocols