Compression intervention on the thigh using elastic bandage on lateral femoral pain after trochanteric fractures: a multicenter randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Abstract Management of postoperative pain after trochanteric fracture that is caused by decreased gliding between tissues in the lateral thigh is not established. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of compression of the thigh using an elastic bandage on trochanteric fracture after surgery. This parallel-group, multicenter randomized controlled trial with blinded participants and outcome assessors was conducted in collaboration with the Comprehensive Rehabilitation Unit (sub-acute rehabilitation Unit) in two hospitals. Eligible volunteers (n = 34) with trochanteric fractures after surgery were randomly assigned to two groups. In the compression group, participants practiced standing and walking under compression of the thigh with an elastic bandage. The sham group was blinded to the intervention and practiced standing and walking under non-compression of the thigh with an elastic bandage. Both groups underwent a standard physical therapy program two times a day, daily. Compression of the thigh with an elastic bandage significantly improved subcutaneous tissue thickness, gliding between tissues, lateral thigh pain, hip abduction muscle strength, and knee extension muscle strength. In addition, thigh compression was found to be an effective intervention for improving gait velocity. Clinical trial registration number: UMIN Clinical Trial Registry: No. 000038583