NCT07255651

Effect of Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive Therapy on Pain and Range of Motion After Flexor Tendon Repair

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 40 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Cairo University · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 20 Years – 35 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive therapy (TECAR) on pain and range of motion (ROM) after hand flexor tendon repair.

Detailed description

Lacking satisfactory healing of intrasynovial tendons, such as the flexor tendons of the hand, is particularly challenging due to the formation of fibrous adhesions between the tendon, sheath and surrounding tissues which can further limit mobility. Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive therapy (TECAR) enhances the body's natural ability to repair tissues and reduce pain by improving blood flow and promoting additional benefits, such as cell proliferation. This process, primarily linked to the flow of current, supports cell growth and plays a significant role in the healing process. There is a lack in quantitative knowledge and information in the published studies about the benefits of TEcar therapy on the improvement of hand function after long flexor tendon repair . So, this study is designed to outline the therapeutic impact of TEcar therapy on pain and ROM after hand flexor tendon repair.

Conditions

• Flexor Tendon Rupture

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
DEVICE	Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) therapy	Before each session, cables will be checked, the therapist will explain the procedure, the patient will be positioned comfortably, and conductive cream will be applied. The active electrode will be moved in circular motions over the injured tendon while the inactive electrode will be placed under the forearm. Intensity will be set to a comfortable, moderate level based on patient sensation. Radio-frequency (RF) energy will be delivered via capacitive mode for 2 minutes per digit, then resistive mode for 4 minutes per digit (total 6 minutes per digit). Treatment will include 8 sessions, twice weekly.
OTHER	Early mobilization protocol	The dorsal splint/cast will position the wrist at neutral or 15-30° extension with metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints at 70-90° flexion, featuring low edges for exercise without removal. It will be worn full-time for the first 3 weeks post-surgery, then based on environmental safety (only during sleep and outside home if safe) for weeks 4-6. Patients will begin outpatient physical therapy from week 1 with active mobilization and home exercises every 2 hours. Dressings will be changed every other day. During weeks 1-2, passive/active flexion/extension will follow the Duran protocol (25-50% range of motion) with splint worn during therapy. Weeks 3-4 will progress to 75-100% range of motion, with splint removal at week 4 for active tenodesis exercises. Weeks 5-6 will add tendon gliding, blocking exercises, and light activities while avoiding strenuous lifting or gripping. This progressive protocol will ensure safe healing while gradually restoring function.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-12-01
• Primary completion: 2026-02-01
• Completion: 2026-02-15
• First posted: 2025-12-01
• Last updated: 2025-12-01

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Egypt