Does mental practice or mirror therapy help prevent functional loss after distal radius fracture? A randomized...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Distal radius fractures (DRF) often lead to suboptimal recovery, particularly in older patients.
• Motor-cognitive training, including Mental Practice (MP) and Mirror Therapy (MT), presents a potential solution for early rehabilitation without stressing the injured wrist.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of MP and MT on wrist function following DRF.
• To assess the feasibility of implementing MP and MT in early rehabilitation settings.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, single-blinded controlled trial involving 31 women with DRF.
• Participants were assigned to MP, MT, or a relaxation control group for a six-week home-based training program.
• Assessments of subjective function (PRWE, QuickDASH), objective wrist measures (ROM, grip strength), and quality of life (EQ-5D) were conducted at weeks 0, 3, 6, and 12.

Main Results:

• Both MP and MT groups demonstrated greater functional improvements compared to the control group.
• The MT group showed superior outcomes in most measures, while the MP group exhibited higher improvements in grip strength.
• Statistical analysis indicated significant positive trends for both interventions over time, supporting their efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Motor-cognitive interventions like MP and MT are feasible and effective supplements for early rehabilitation after DRF.
• These methods support the simulation theory and offer a non-stressful approach to counteract immobilization effects.
• The findings suggest MP and MT can significantly enhance recovery and wrist function post-fracture.