OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects on strength, pain intensity, range of motion (ROM), and functionality of a 12-week dual-task resistance exercise program in patients undergoing rehabilitation from elbow fractures. DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Rehabilitation hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Individuals undergoing elbow fracture rehabilitation (n = 32). INTERVENTION: Randomization was performed sequentially using numbered envelopes containing assignments to either an intervention group (dual-task resistance training using a mathematical task with self-regulation, n = 18) or a control group (traditional resistance training, n = 14) for 12 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcomes were muscle strength for elbow flexors and extensors and pain assessed by the visual analog scale from 0 to 100 mm. The secondary outcomes were Kinesiophobia assessed by the Tampa Scale-11 and disability using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire and passive ROM. RESULTS: Dual-task resistance training improved strength and reduced pain more than resistance training alone (p < 0.005), and only the dual-task group improved in Kinesiophobia (p < 0.005). The linear regression showed a significant negative association between Kinesiophobia and increased elbow strength in the dual-task group (flexion, r -0.53, p = 0.024; extension, r -0.65, p = 0.004) but not in the control group (p > 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the group for disability and passive ROM (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Dual-task resistance training and traditional resistance training both enhance strength, reduce pain, improve functionality, and increase ROM after 12 weeks of elbow fracture rehabilitation. However, dual-task resistance training is superior to resistance training alone in enhancing strength and reducing pain.

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