Effect of Early Daily Activity on Recovery After Distal Radius Fracture Treated in a Cast

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the impact of starting daily activities early after a distal radius fracture treated with a cast. This randomized controlled trial compares two groups to see how early activity affects recovery and function after this type of wrist fracture. The study aims to understand differences in pain, movement, strength, and coordination between patients who receive special instructions for activity and those who receive standard cast care advice. Participants are assigned randomly to either an experimental group or a control group. The experimental group watches a video and receives a handout about how to perform daily activities safely with the injured hand while in a cast, along with cast care information. The control group watches a video and receives a handout focused only on cast care. Data collection occurs at initial evaluation between 0 and 3 weeks, then at 6 weeks, 9 weeks, and 3 months after injury. Throughout the 3-month study, participants provide information on their function, pain levels, and fear of moving the injured limb. Clinical tests such as finger motion, grip and pinch strength, and fine motor coordination are measured. Questionnaires like the Michigan Hand Evaluation, Visual Analog Pain Scale, and Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia-11 are completed by participants using tablets or email links. Researchers monitor for complications and note if participants receive hand therapy, with all data securely stored and compared to evaluate recovery progress.

Impact of Early ADL Participation on Outcomes Post DRF