Active controlled motion in early rehabilitation improves outcome after ankle fractures: a randomized controlled trial

50 patients with a Weber type B or C unstable ankle fracture and requiring partial weight bearing following fixation were randomized to physical therapy with or without the addition of an active controlled motion device during rehabilitation. Patients were assessed for function scores over the first 12 weeks after surgery and time to return to work. Results demonstrated significantly greater function and shorter time to return to work among those who received the active controlled motion device compared to those that did not.