Splinting and Physical Therapy After Surgery for Wrist Fractures
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether individuals with a specific type of wrist fracture heal better with or without a splint and formal physical therapy after surgery. It compares two groups: one performing self-directed physical therapy exercises and another attending professional therapy sessions. The goal is to determine if early wrist movement leads to better recovery without additional pain or complications. Individuals with wrist fractures involving shifts or gaps in bone alignment may be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to valuable research that could enhance future treatment options for wrist fractures.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that splinting and physical therapy after wrist surgery are safe?
Previous studies have shown that performing physical therapy exercises at home is generally safe for treating wrist fractures. Patients often find these exercises as effective as visiting a therapist, with no serious safety issues reported.
Research also indicates that attending therapy sessions is safe and can improve movement and reduce pain after a wrist fracture. Both methods, whether done at home or with a therapist, are well-tolerated, and no major problems have been reported in these studies.
Overall, both home exercises and therapy sessions are considered safe options after wrist surgery.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores two different approaches to post-surgery rehabilitation for wrist fractures. Unlike the standard of care, which often involves a structured physical therapy program, the trial investigates both self-directed home exercises and more traditional supervised therapy. The immediate mobilization group allows patients to start moving their wrists right after surgery with the guidance of a simple pamphlet, promoting faster independence. Meanwhile, the delayed mobilization group utilizes custom splints and therapist-led sessions to provide a more controlled recovery process. By comparing these methods, researchers hope to identify which approach optimizes healing and restores wrist function most effectively.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for wrist fractures?
This trial will compare immediate mobilization with self-guided physical therapy to delayed mobilization with formal physical therapy after wrist fracture surgery. Studies have shown that both home exercises and physical therapy sessions aid recovery from wrist fractures. Research indicates that a home exercise routine can lead to similar improvements in movement and strength as professional therapy sessions. One study found no significant differences in pain or grip strength between those attending therapy and those exercising at home. Therapy sessions can improve movement and reduce pain in the short term. However, not all studies agree, with some suggesting that therapy's benefits might not significantly surpass home exercises. Both options can be effective, depending on individual preference and available resources.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jadie De Tolla, MD
Principal Investigator
NYU Langone Health
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who have had surgery to fix a broken wrist (distal radius fracture) with specific criteria like displacement or tilt of the bone. They must not have other fractures in the same arm, different types of fixation, severe open fractures, or nerve injuries.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Surgery and Initial Recovery
Participants undergo surgical fixation of distal radius fractures and initial recovery
Treatment
Participants follow either immediate mobilization with self-guided physical therapy or delayed mobilization with formal physical therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessments of fixation, pain, range of motion, and grip strength
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Formal Physical Therapy
- Self directed physical therapy
- Soft dressing (No Splint)
- Splint
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
NYU Langone Health
Lead Sponsor