Adults recovering from surgically managed diaphyseal femur or tibia fractures often experience persistent weakness, pain, and functional limitations despite successful fracture healing. This prospective, non-randomized pilot study evaluates the feasibility and acceptability of a structured, supervised resistance training program initiated approximately 12 weeks after surgery, compared with usual postoperative care alone. The study will assess recruitment, adherence, retention, and protocol fidelity, and will collect exploratory patient-reported and physical function outcomes to inform the design of a future randomized controlled trial.
Adults aged 20 to 65 years
Diaphyseal femur or tibia fracture treated surgically with locked intramedullary nail fixation
Cleared for full weight bearing with adequate fracture healing and no major complications
Able to provide written informed consent in English without an interpreter
Bilateral fractures or open fractures; Polytrauma
Cognitive impairment affecting participation or ability to provide informed consent
Severe cardiac, respiratory, or neurological conditions that preclude exercise participation
Chronic pain syndromes or recent opioid dependence