Comparison of the results of short-term rigid and semi-rigid cast immobilization for the treatment of grade 3 inversion injuries of the ankle

In this prospective, randomized study, short-term immobilization with semi-rigid (Soft Cast(R)) and rigid (Scotchcast Plus(R)) synthetic case materials were compared for the functional treatment of acute grade 3 lateral ligament injuries of the ankle. Degree of ligament injury was assessed by clinical criteria. Duration of immobilization was 2 weeks for both groups and home physiotherapy was started thereafter. Fifty-seven patients completed the study and both materials were found to be equally effective in providing a stable ankle at the end of 6 weeks following. Soft Cast(R) group had better range of motion and could walk better at 2 weeks, but these differences diminished at 6 weeks. With the Soft Cast(R), patient satisfaction was higher, need for a support for walking was less and return to work was earlier. When combined with the reduced cost of application, Soft Cast(R) is the material of choice for the initial short-term immobilization for the functional treatment of acute ankle ligament injuries. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.