Effectiveness of Graded Motor Imagery to Improve Hand Function in Patients With Distal Radius Fracture

Cognitive Therapy Model: Graded Motor Imagery

The purpose of this study was to investigate of the effectiveness of Graded Motor Imagery (GMI) on hand functionality in patients with Distal Radius Fracture (DRFx). This study was carried out on 36 patients. These patients were randomly assigned to two groups: classic treatment group (n=19) and GMI group (n=17). Both groups received a 8-week (2 days a week) physical therapy and rehabilitation intervention. Outcome measurements were based on upper extremity functional status (Disability of the Arm Shoulder Hand and Michigan Hand Questionnaire scores), pain (on the rest and during the activity with Visual Analog Scale), range of motion (wrist flexion, extension, ulnar/radial deviation, supination and pronation with goniometer), grip strength (standard grip strength with Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer; lateral, palmar and pinch strength with pinch meter).

Inclusion Criteria:

• ages between 18-65 years
• diagnosed with DRFx which is extra-articular
• managed with pins, internal fixation and/or cast

Exclusion Criteria:

• unwilling or unable to participate
• intra-articular and instable fractures containing other part of the fractures
• fractures related with the malignancy and other neurologic diseases
• existing inflammatory joint condition,
• lack of cognitive function.