[Results of functional aftercare following surgically treated ruptures of the outer ligaments. A comparative study of aftercare by a lower leg walking cast or the Dr. Spring special shoe].

There is no doubt that primary suturing of the ruptured ankle ligament gives the best results regarding joint stability. However, there are differing views concerning the follow-up treatment. In particular, there are controversial opinions about the value of a special shoe by Dr. Spring during the rehabilitation phase. During the period April 1984 to July 1985 100 patients with rupture of the fibular ligament were treated operatively, 50 of whom were treated post-operatively with 14-day lying plaster of Paris followed by a further 14 days with the special shoe from Dr. Spring and 50 with a lower leg walking plaster of Paris. The results were compared over a period of 8 weeks, using objective criteria. The subjective impressions followed after at least 6 months. After 8 weeks the mobility of the joint in dorsalflexion and pronation is similar in both groups; in plantar flexion and supination better mobility was seen after the plaster of Paris treatment. There was no significant difference in the duration of unfitness for work. Subjectively, there was a reduced tendency to swelling after the plaster of Paris treatment.