The impact of unhelpful pain beliefs on patient outcomes after surgically managed ankle fractures

Unhelpful pain beliefs measured two weeks after ankle fracture surgery were consistently associated with poorer function and quality of life up to 12 months. Pain self-efficacy and fear of movement emerged as stronger predictors than most demographic or clinical factors, highlighting their value as early screening targets. These findings support the integration of biopsychosocial interventions to improve recovery following ankle fracture surgery.