Efficacy of tilt table standing training combined with body weight supported treadmill training in patients with ankle fracture

This study evaluated a combined rehabilitation protocol (tilt-table standing initiated at 1 week postoperatively plus body-weight-supported treadmill training from week 4) for improving recovery after Weber B/C ankle fracture surgery, compared to standard care. In this non-randomized trial, 144 patients were assigned to a control group (CG, standard rehabilitation) or an experimental group (OG, standard rehab plus the combined protocol). Outcomes including pain (VAS), ankle range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, proprioception (Absolute Error Angle), swelling, and function (AOFAS score) were assessed at 2 days, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks postoperatively. Baseline characteristics were comparable. While both groups improved significantly over time, the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater ankle ROM at 4 weeks. By 8 weeks, the experimental group showed superior outcomes in VAS, ROM, muscle strength, proprioception, and AOFAS scores. No significant inter-group difference in ankle swelling was found at any time point. The combined protocol of tilt-table standing, and body-weight-supported treadmill training is an effective strategy for enhancing functional recovery, alleviating pain, and improving joint mechanics after Weber B/C ankle fracture surgery. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN40261269. Register date:11/07/2026. Retrospectively registered.