Study Summary

Three hundred twenty-five patients with traumatic lower-extremity injuries requiring operative fixation were randomized to receive cognitive-behavioral-based physical therapy (CBPT) or a standardized education program. The primary outcome of interest was the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function scale. Secondary outcomes included objective physical function tests (4-square step test, timed stair ascent, sit-to-stand, walking speed), PROMIS Pain Intensity, PROMIS Pain Interference, and general health via the Veterans RAND-12 survey. Outcomes were assessed at 6 and 12 months after hospital discharge. Overall, the results of the study revealed no significant difference in physical function between groups at 12 months, and no differences were observed in any secondary outcomes. These findings suggest that telephone-delivered CBPT does not provide additional benefit over an education-based intervention in this population.