Impact of Early ADL Education on Outcomes Post DRF ORIF

This study is a randomized controlled trial (RCT). This RCT which will study the effect of performing daily activities early after a distal radius fracture being treated with surgical intervention of open reduction and internal fixation. This study will have two groups. The experimental group will watch a video and be given a handout on how to perform daily activities with the hand of the injured wrist while recovering from surgery and postoperative instructions. The control group will watch a video on wound care and be given a handout on postoperative instructions. Outcome measures will be taken at initial evaluation between 1-2 weeks post surgery, at 5-7 weeks post surgery, at 8-10 weeks, and at 12-14 weeks. Outcome measures will include the Michigan Wrist Evaluation, Visual Analog Pain Scale, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia-11 Scale, finger mobility testing, grip and pinch strength, and the 9 hole peg test to test fine motor coordination. Outcome measure scores will be compared between groups using a t-test statistical test. Outcome measure scores will also be tested within groups using a paired t-test.

Inclusion Criteria: English Speaking DRF treated with ORIF Individuals 18 years of age or older 2 weeks or less post ORIF for DRF Exclusion Criteria: Individuals with pre-existing neurological coniditons affecting the upper limb Individuals with congnitive deficits that would limit the ability to correctly report information on outcome measures Individuals with psychological deficits which would limit the ability to correctly report information on outcome measures Individuals with multiple injuries to the affected upper limb Individuals with multiple injuries to both upper limbs Prior distal radius fracture involving the same wrist Individuals receiving hand therapy for another injury at enrollment into study