The Effectiveness of Cross-training on an Immobilised Forearm

The Effectiveness of Cross-training on an Immobilised Forearm Due to Fracture

The cross-training phenomenon is the increase in muscle strength in the contralateral limb when one limb is exercised. Limited studies have shown that it prevents immobilisation-induced muscle weakness in healthy volunteers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of strengthening the contralateral extremity on muscle strength and range of motion in the immobilised extremity in patients who had undergone immobilisation for forearm fractures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Traumatic unilateral forearm fracture (treated surgically or conservatively and immobilised in a cast)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous upper limb surgery/joint disease - deformity affecting hand-wrist function
• Any neurological condition affecting the upper extremity (stroke, Parkinson's disease; multiple sclerosis, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, peripheral nerve injury)