Finger Exercise
In the absence of reliable evidence, it is the opinion of the work group that patients perform active finger motion exercises following diagnosis of distal radius fractures.
CONSENSUS RECOMMENDATION Rationale
Hand stiffness is one of the most functionally disabling adverse effects after distal radius fractures. Stiffness of the fingers can result from a combination of factors including pain, swelling, obstruction by splints or casts, and apprehension or lack of understanding by the patient. Finger stiffness can be very difficult to treat after fracture healing requiring multiple therapy visits and possibly additional surgical intervention. Instructing the patient at the first encounter to move their fingers regularly and through a complete range of motion may help to minimize the risk of this complication. Finger motion does not have any adverse effects on an adequately stabilized distal radius fracture with regard to reduction or healing. This is an extremely cost-effective intervention as it does not require any pharmaceutical intervention or additional visits while making a significant impact on patient outcome. Although finger stiffness is a critical adverse effect of distal radius fractures and directly impacts patient outcome, the effects of early finger motion cannot be ethically evaluated in a level I prospective study. The members of the work group feel it is important to make a recommendation by consensus opinion.
It is current clinical practice for the treating physician to instruct every patient to move their fingers after distal radius fracture regardless of the type of treatment or immobilization selected. This recommendation is consistent with current practice.
It is current clinical practice for the treating physician to instruct every patient to move their fingers after distal radius fracture regardless of the type of treatment or immobilization selected. This recommendation is consistent with current practice.