Physiotherapy Management of Distal Radius Fracture Using Infrared and Hold-Relax: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Distal radius fracture is a common upper extremity injury that often results in pain, limited range of motion (ROM), muscle weakness, and impaired hand function following immobilization or surgical intervention.

Objective: To describe the effects of combined infrared therapy and hold-relax technique on pain, joint mobility, muscle strength, and functional ability in a patient with distal radius fracture.

Methods: This clinical case report involved a 48-year-old female patient following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of a distal radius fracture. The patient received six physiotherapy sessions over two weeks, consisting of infrared therapy (10–15 minutes/session) and hold-relax technique targeting wrist flexor and extensor muscles, combined with active-assisted exercises. Outcomes were assessed using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for pain, goniometric measurement for ROM, Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) for muscle strength, and Wrist Hand Disability Index (WHDI) for functional ability at baseline (T1), mid-intervention (T2), and post-intervention (T3).

Results: Pain intensity decreased from NRS 6 to 3 (Δ = −3). ROM improved, particularly wrist extension (30° to 40°, Δ = +10°), supination (50° to 60°, Δ = +10°), and radial deviation (5° to 15°, Δ = +10°). WHDI scores improved from 72% to 65% (Δ = −7%). Muscle strength remained unchanged at MMT grade 3.

Conclusion: The combination of infrared therapy and hold-relax technique was associated with reduced pain and improved joint mobility and functional ability in early rehabilitation after distal radius fracture, although no improvement in muscle strength was observed during the short intervention period.