A Two-Arm, Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating Mechanical Modalities Combined With Standard Therapy Versus Standard Therapy Alone for Edema and Pain Management After Distal Radius Fracture Fixation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the added benefit of mechanical devices combined with standard therapy for managing swelling and pain after surgery to fix broken wrists (distal radius fractures). This study is a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial that aims to compare the effects of these mechanical methods with standard care alone. Key outcomes being measured include the amount of swelling and pain levels at six weeks after surgery, along with wrist and forearm movement, hand strength, patient-reported wrist function, and any side effects. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives a combination of mechanical treatments—continuous passive motion (CPM) using a device that gently moves the wrist, and intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) using a sleeve that applies pressure to the arm—alongside a standard rehabilitation program. The other group receives the standard therapy alone, which includes guided exercises and manual techniques for swelling and scar management. CPM is applied for 20 minutes, followed by 15 minutes of IPC, with adjustments made for comfort and pain. During the study, participants attend therapy sessions at an outpatient hand therapy center starting about two weeks after surgery. Assessments include measuring swelling volume and pain at baseline and six weeks post-operation, and evaluating wrist/forearm range of motion and grip strength at baseline, six weeks, and three months. Researchers also continuously monitor any adverse events throughout the three-month follow-up period. The total participation duration includes initial assessments and follow-ups over three months.

Mechanical Modalities vs. Standard Care for Edema and Pain Management After DRF Fixation