A Case Report on Effectiveness of Early Physiotherapy Rehabilitation Approach for Colles’ Fracture

Abstract

Colles' fracture specifically is defined as metaphyseal injury of cortico-cancellous junction of distal radius. The incidence has been shown to follow bimodal distribution; in general those most affected are in first and seventh decade of life. Distal radius fracture have high incidence among the aging population. Comminuted fracture of distal end of the radius are caused by severe trauma and presents as shear and impacted fracture of articular surface. The type of fracture and localization, degree of displacement, patient's age and magnitude of soft tissue injury are the factors to be considered for treatment options. A 19 year old female reported to casualty with pain, swelling, tenderness and deformity over right wrist. Patient had history of fall from stairs 2 months back and sustained trauma to her to her right wrist. She was unable to performher daily activities with right hand. X-ray findings confirmed displaced comminuted fracture of distal end of right radius Medicinal and therapeutic intervention was given. Therapeutic intervention included thermotherapy, range of motion exercises, joint mobilization and progressive resistive exercise. Functional improvement was observed after 12 weeks of physiotherapy. Early start of physiotherapy after fixation of fracture can improve forearm functioning and quality of life.