This study is a prospective, randomized controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of three conservative treatment approaches-Kinesio taping (KT), buddy taping (BT), and static splinting-for managing finger ligament injuries and non-displaced fractures. A total of 175 patients between the ages of 5 and 60 were randomly assigned to one of the treatment groups and monitored over a 3-month period. The study aims to assess outcomes including range of motion (ROM), grip strength, pain levels, and functional recovery using the QuickDASH questionnaire.
Finger ligament injuries and non-displaced fractures are common conditions encountered in both pediatric and adult orthopedic populations. Conservative treatment options such as buddy taping and splinting are commonly employed in clinical practice, although each method may affect mobility and patient comfort differently. This randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate three conservative treatment modalities-Kinesio taping (KT), buddy taping (BT), and static volar splinting-in patients aged 5 to 60 years. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the three treatment groups and evaluated at three time points: Day 3, Week 3, and Month 3. The primary outcome measure was the range of motion of the injured finger. Secondary outcomes included grip strength, pain scores, QuickDASH assessments, and incidence of skin-related complications. Outcome evaluations were performed by an independent orthopedic surgeon who was blinded to group assignment. Patients were stratified into pediatric and adult subgroups to assess age-related differences in treatment response. The study followed a parallel assignment design and employed single-blind outcome assessment.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
175
Elastic therapeutic tape was applied using the ligament correction technique. The tape was reapplied at Day 3 and Day 21 under supervision
Buddy taping involved strapping the injured finger to an adjacent digit using medical tape. Early motion was restricted.
A custom-molded thermoplastic splint was applied to restrict joint movement and maintain alignment. Patients remained immobilized until Week 3.
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital
Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)
Range of Motion (ROM) in Injured Finger
Flexion and extension angles of the injured finger joints measured using a digital goniometer. Results expressed in degrees. Higher values indicate better mobility.
Time frame: Week 3 and Month 3
QuickDASH Disability Score
Functional status of the upper limb evaluated using the QuickDASH questionnaire. Scores range from 0 (no disability) to 100 (maximum disability). Lower scores indicate better function.
Time frame: Week 3 and Month 3
Grip Strength Recovery
Hand grip strength of the injured side measured using a dynamometer, expressed as a percentage of the unaffected side. Higher percentages indicate better recovery.
Time frame: Month 3
Incidence of Skin Complications
Occurrence of skin maceration, irritation, or pressure sores recorded during follow-up visits.
Time frame: Up to Month 3
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.