Impact of physiotherapy rehabilitation on hand function in post Colle’s fracture

Abstract

Introduction: Distal radius fractures are the most common types of fractures commonly occurring in pediatric and elderly populations but still have a significant impact on the health and well-being of young adults. Colle’s fracture of the wrist is among the most common bony injuries encountered in emergency practice commonly caused by a fall, landing on an outstretched hand with the wrist in dorsiflexion. The majority of Colle’s fractures are manageable with casting and conservative management. After healing and cast removal, the joint undergoes stiffness that needs prompt physiotherapy management to improve range of motion with muscle and ligament strengthening specifically for the injured hand and wrist affected. The patient’s main concerns were Pain, swelling, and stiffness over the forearm, wrist, and hand. The main clinical findings were pain, reduced ROM, reduced strength, stiffness and inability to perform wrist, and hand movements. Wrist and hand stiffness post Colle’s fracture. Physical therapy rehabilitation has already been proven effective in post-fracture rehabilitation, it includes protocol-based and evidence-based approach involving ROM exercises, stretching and strengthening exercises, mobilization, application of different modalities for symptomatic control, massage therapy, etc. outcomes are gross improvement in ROM, strength on MRC, improvement in the overall function of hand and activities of daily living as per Michigan hand outcome questionnaire, improvement in dexterity as per Jebsen hand dexterity test. Efficacy of physiotherapy rehabilitation has already been established. Early, programmed, evidence, and protocol-based rehabilitation has been found effective in reducing symptoms, improving functional independence, and ability to perform activities of daily living. The study also signifies how avoidance and ignorance can lead to complications that are otherwise preventable.