Clinical application of controlled stress to the healing extensor tendon: a review of 112 cases.

The purposes of this article are to describe an early passive motion program for the healing extensor tendon and to report the results and trends noted in a review of 112 complex extensor tendon injuries treated with this therapeutic technique. The rationale for this technique is based on a review of the physiologic response of healing tendon to controlled stress. Clinical application is dependent on a biomechanical study of extensor tendon excursion, which allows the therapist to apply controlled stress to the healing tendon with precision. The early passive motion technique is considered in terms of physiology, biomechanics, clinical application, and results. The author concludes that early controlled passive motion for the complex extensor tendon injury in zones V, VI, VII, T IV, and TV is a safe and effective rehabilitation technique that reduces complications associated with extensor tendon injury and repair.