Comparison of rehabilitation interventions in nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures: a randomized controlled trial of effectiveness
OrthoEvidence Journal (OE Journal) - ACE Report
OE Journal. 2021;9(16):9 Bone Joint J. 2021 Jun;103-B(6): 1033-1039.What this means for my practice?
The results of this study suggest that rehabilitation advice delivered by a leaflet or video does not significantly affect 1 year clinical outcomes compared to face-to-face therapy in patients recovering from non-operatively treated distal radius fractures. Given the difficulty in accessing face-to-face therapy in the pandemic environment, video and leaflet advice interventions may prove useful. However, working patients who are more active may find more benefit with face-to-face therapy compared to an advice leaflet alone. This study was limited by the the significant loss to follow up (>20%) in the advice leaflet group, and future trials to confirm the results of this study are of interest.
Study Summary
One hundred and twenty patients with non-operatively treated distal radius fractures were randomized to receive 6 weeks of rehabilitation therapy delivered via an advice leaflet (n=40), advice video (n=40), or face-to-face therapy (n=40). The primary outcome of interest was the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at 6 weeks. Secondary outcomes of interest included the DASH work score (for those in employment), grip strength, and range of motion. Outcomes were assessed at 6 weeks and 1 year follow up. Results revealed no significant differences between groups in DASH scores at 6 weeks or 1 year follow up. DASH work scores at 6 weeks were significantly in favour of the face-to-face group compared to the advice leaflet group; otherwise, no significant differences between groups were observed between groups in all secondary outcomes.
Unlock the Full ACE Report
You have access to 4 more FREE articles this month.
Click below to unlock and view this ACE Reports
Unlock Now
Critical appraisals of the latest, high-impact randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews in orthopaedics
Access to OrthoEvidence podcast content, including collaborations with the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, interviews with internationally recognized surgeons, and roundtable discussions on orthopaedic news and topics
Subscription to The Pulse, a twice-weekly evidence-based newsletter designed to help you make better clinical decisions
Exclusive access to original content articles, including in-house systematic reviews, and articles on health research methods and hot orthopaedic topics
Or upgrade today and gain access to all OrthoEvidencecontent for as little as $1.99 per week.
Already have an account? Log in
Are you affiliated with one of our partner associations?
Click here to gain complimentary access as part your association member benefits!
0 of 4 monthly FREE articles unlocked
