Early Strengthening Rehabilitation Training for Post-operative Fracture Distal Radius

This study evaluates whether an "early strengthening protocol" (ESP) — which begins strengthening and passive mobilization exercises immediately after wrist fracture surgery — produces better or comparable recovery outcomes compared to the standard early motion protocol (EMP) currently used after distal radius fracture fixation. Wrist fractures are among the most common fractures in older adults, and some patients struggle with stiffness and poor function even with early movement-based rehabilitation. Eligible participants are adults aged 50 and older with a closed, displaced distal radius fracture requiring surgery, without previous wrist surgery, nerve injuries, or arthritis, who are fit for anesthesia and able to follow rehabilitation instructions. Participation involves being randomly assigned to one of the two rehabilitation protocols and being assessed for wrist strength, range of motion, and functional outcomes over time. This summary was prepared using AI to help patients understand the study in plain language.