Infrared and Exercise Therapy for Post-Immobilization Wrist Stiffness after Distal Radius Fracture: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Distal radius fractures frequently result from falls on an outstretched hand and may lead to post-immobilization complications such as wrist joint stiffness. This case report investigates the effectiveness of combined infrared therapy and exercise therapy in managing wrist stiffness following cast immobilization of a distal one-third radius fracture.

Methods: A single-patient case study was conducted on a patient presenting with pain, edema, limited range of motion (ROM), muscle spasm, decreased strength, and impaired wrist function. Interventions included infrared therapy and structured exercise sessions. Outcome measures comprised the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), ROM, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), and Wrist Hand Disability Index (WHDI).

Results: Pain on palpation decreased from VAS 2 (T1) to 0 (T5), and pain during movement decreased from 6 to 4. Edema reduced at all measurement points. Muscle spasm decreased from moderate to mild. ROM improved in palmar flexion (10° to 20°), dorsal flexion (25° to 35°), radial deviation (10° to 25°), ulnar deviation (15° to 30°), supination (15° to 20°), and pronation (60° to 75°). Muscle strength increased in the pronator group from grade 3 to 5, and in other wrist muscles from grade 3 to 4. WHDI scores improved from 32 to 20.

Conclusion: Combined infrared and exercise therapy effectively reduced pain, edema, and muscle spasm while enhancing ROM, muscle strength, and functional outcomes in a patient with post-immobilization wrist stiffness following distal radius fracture.