![]() Delaying motion for longer than this period may result in adherence of the soft tissues and joint stiffness. Beginning motion around this time will allow the collagen to respond favorably to the mechanical stress applied to it. 13 Proliferation of the repair material peaks at approximately 2 to 3 weeks post surgery, 13 this is when the bulk of the scar tissue is formed. Therapy that is begun too early post surgery may disrupt the inflammatory phase and early proliferative phase of healing. This enables the patient to experience a return of motion to the hand improved motion will allow functional gains. 11 Motion will aid reduction of swelling and stiffness that is a result of oedema. ![]() It has been shown that patients with finger stiffness (following a DRF) have a greater pain intensity score and disability than those without stiffness. ![]() These studies indicate that earlier function is obtained if a VLP is used surgically.Įarly movement post surgery is beneficial in prevention of adherence of the tendons to the metal work or skin, 10 reducing joint adhesions and finger stiffness, 11 reducing neural tightness, 12 and preventing unnecessary muscle atrophy. 9 have compared VLP to other fixation methods (external fixation, k wires, non-locking plates and bridging external fixation). 1, 6 Studies by McCamley et al, 6 Wigg et al, 7 Wilcke et al. Fracture fixation using a VLP is currently the most common surgical treatment for this population. Surgery offers an obvious increased potential risk of infection and soft tissue damage, therefore internal or external fixation is reserved for more complex injuries. The determination of the most efficient and effective care available is of benefit to the patient and health provider combined. 1 A large percentage of the annual health cost is utilized by DRF patients as a result of the initial assessment and investigation, surgery, treatment materials, therapy costs and time at work lost. It is predicted that wrist fractures will increase by 25% in the next 4 years in people aged over 50. 5 The incidence is increasing with an aging population. 2 DRF are one of the most common fractures that occur in adults, accounting for approximately 15% of all fractures. A distal radius fracture (DRF) is defined as a fracture occurring in the distal radius within 3 cm of the radio-carpal joint.
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