Calcaneal fracture: results of earlier rehabilitation after open reduction and internal fixation

Introduction This study aimed to analyze the clinical and radiological outcomes of early weight-bearing and rehabilitation after open reduction and internal fixation (OR/IF) of calcaneal fracture. Materials and methods This retrospective study was conducted on 78 patients with unilateral calcaneal fracture who underwent OR/IF. A mean follow-up period was 45.8 months (range 12–135). Two weeks after surgery, the range of motion (ROM) exercise was started, brace or heel off shoe was applied, and forefoot weight-bearing was allowed. Four weeks after surgery, tolerable weight-bearing ambulation without crutch was allowed. When the patient was not walking, the braces were removed to perform peritalar ROM exercises. Radiologic evaluation was performed by measuring the Böhler angle and incongruency of the subtalar joint surface. Paley grade was used to assess traumatic arthritis. Clinical evaluation was performed by measuring the foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS) and ankle ROM. Results The mean postoperative Böhler angle was 31.7° ( P