Purpose
Although the effectiveness of using text messages in home-based rehabilitation programs
has been investigated, its ability to engage patients in home rehabilitation exercises
and, as a result, improve hand outcomes, specifically in patients with flexor tendon
injuries, has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine whether the
addition of a text message–based intervention to usual care is effective in improving
hand outcomes in patients with flexor tendon injuries after repair.
Methods
In this 2-arm parallel randomized controlled trial, 40 patients were randomly assigned
to either the intervention group (usual care plus the support program) or the control
group (usual care only). Intervention included an automated package of instructional
text messages containing links to a secure website for instructional rehabilitation
videos delivered over 12 weeks. The Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand
and visual analog scale for pain scores were assessed at 6 and 12 weeks. Physician-reported
grip strength and total active motion were assessed after 12 weeks.
Results
The study was completed by 90% (36 of 40) of the patients who were enrolled. There
were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups with respect to Quick
Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and visual analog scale scores at the
6-week and 12-week assessments. In addition, there were statistically significant
differences between the 2 groups with respect to total active motion and grip strength
at 12 weeks. Finally, a high level of satisfaction with the intervention was reported.
Conclusions
The text message–based program was associated with improved outcomes over the first
12 weeks after flexor tendon repair.
Type of study/level of evidence
Therapeutic II.
Key words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: September 03, 2022
Accepted:
July 15,
2022
Received:
October 30,
2021
Footnotes
No benefits in any form have been received or will be received related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
Identification
Copyright
© 2022 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. All rights reserved.
