Effectiveness Of Early Passive Mobilisation (EPM) Versus Early Active Mobilisation (EAM) Protocols On Total Active Motion And Grip Strength In Flexor Tendon Zone II Repair – A Pilot Study

Abstract

Introduction: Despite large amount of data about different rehabilitation  protocols, there were very few studies comparing early passive mobilisation (EPM) with early active mobilisation protocols (EAM).Hence, a randomized controlled trial was done to compare & determine the effectiveness of Early passive mobilisation (EPM) versus Early active mobilisation (EAM) Protocols on Total Active Motion (TAM) & Grip Strength in subjects following Flexor Tendon Zone II Repair. Methodology: Seventeen Subjects who underwent Primary Repair of  Flexor Tendon zone II were identified. Twelve  subjects met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled in the research. They were randomly assigned to EPM & EAM Groups through Simple Random Sampling method and treated for eight successive weeks.Outcomes:        Total Active Motion(TAM) values were evaluated using the American Society for Surgery of the Hand criteria. Grip strength was measured using Jamar dynamometer. Both outcomes were assessed at 4 & 8 weeks after surgery. Results: Mean TAM values and Mean Grip strength  were significantly greater in EAM Group. Hence, EAM Group is better than EPM Group. Conclusion: Early Active Mobilisation (EAM) is more effective than Early Passive Mobilisation (EPM) protocol, in restoring digital range of motion and grip strength following Flexor Tendon Zone II repair.