Early Versus Delayed Weight Bearing and Mobilization After Ankle Fracture Fixation Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

The purpose of this review was to determine whether there is a benefit to early weight bearing or mobilization in surgically treated ankle fractures. All randomized controlled trials that analyzed early vs delayed weight bearing and/or mobilization after an ankle surgery were included. The primary outcome measure was the pooled Olerud Molander Ankle Score 1 year postoperatively. No significant differences in ankle function were found at 1 year postoperatively between early and delayed weight bearing and mobilization. The 12-week results demonstrated superior early ankle function scores for patients who had early weight bearing. Patients who had early mobilization were at increased risk for postoperative complications. In surgically treated ankle fractures, early weight bearing resulted in improved short-term ankle function scores. [