The Short Term Effect of Hot Packs and Whirlpool for Increasing Total Active Motion at the Wrist

The Short Term Effect of Hot Packs and Whirlpool for Increasing Total Active Motion at the Wrist

This study investigates the effect of hot packs versus whirlpool and exercise for patients with distal radius fracture (DRF). Patients with recently healed DRF are randomized into two groups, with one group receiving hot packs during therapy and the other immersing the arm in a whirlpool for 3 consecutive therapy visits. The effect of these modalities on range of motion and volume of the hand are evaluated, with measurements taking place before and immediately after heat during each visit.

This study investigates the short term effect of hot packs versus whirlpool and exercise for patients with distal radius fracture (DRF) during a therapy visit. Patients with recently healed DRF are randomized into two groups, with one group receiving hot packs during therapy and the other immersing the arm in a whirlpool for 3 consecutive therapy visits.

Measurements of wrist and forearm range of motion, and volume of the hand are recorded before and immediately after heat for each visit, effectively creating six measurement time points. Change scores are recorded for range of motion and for volume, and analyzed using MANOVA to determine differences between groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healed DRF,
• allowed to perform motion.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Complex regional pain syndrome,
• inability to read/understand english,
• inability to attend follow up sessions due to driving distance from clinic,
• Raynaud's phenomenon