The purpose of this prospective randomized study is to add to the body of knowledge on the treatment of minimally displaced distal radius fractures in patients over 60 years of age. The investigators believe that treating minimally displaced distal radius fractures in people over 60 with a removable splint and early range of motion will provide greater patient satisfaction, fewer complications, and earlier functional returns to pre-injury for these patients compared to those treated with a short arm cast which immobilizes the limb for at least four weeks, and has been shown to lead to longer recovery and possible residual stiffness. The investigators hope to provide sufficient evidence in directing treatment that will give the most efficacious and the most satisfactory return of prior function to patients. Since distal radius fractures in the elderly are common because of poorer bone quality, the elderly proportion of the population is increasing, and controlling health costs is of current concern, answering the question of which treatment produces the best results for all these concerns is of increasing importance now.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
5
Patients will randomly receive a generic plaster or fiberglass cast for treatment of non-displaced distal radius fracture.
Patients will be randomized to receive a generic "off the shelf" removable splint for treatment of a non-displaced distal radius fracture.
Emory Orthopaedics and Spine Center
Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Change in Wrist Range of Motion (ROM)
Wrist ROM will be assessed by a goniometer exam.
Time frame: Baseline, Month 3
Mean Mayo Wrist Score
The Mayo Wrist Score is a clinician-completed scoring system used to evaluate the level of functionality in the wrist, assessing pain, functional status (able to work), range of motion and grip strength. Total scores for functionality range from 0-100 and are categorized as follows: 90-100 indicates excellent, 80-90 indicates good, 60-80 indicates satisfactory, below 60 indicates poor. The assessment was completed at all study visits.
Time frame: Baseline, Week 2, Week 6, Week 12
Change in Grip Strength
Grip strength will be assessed by bilateral dynamometer testing.
Time frame: Baseline, Month 3
Complication Rate
The number of participants who experienced treatment related complications including the need for manipulation in the case of lost reduction.
Time frame: Duration of Study (Up to 3 Months)
Mean Pain Score
Pain will be assessed by a visual analog scale (VAS). Participants rate their pain level in a scale from 0 to 10; 0 representing "no pain" and 10 representing "the worst pain imaginable". The assessment was completed at all study visits.
Time frame: Baseline, Week 2, Week 6, Week 12
Mean Disabilities of the Arm and Shoulder (DASH) Questionnaire Score
The DASH questionnaire asks about symptoms as well as ability to perform certain activities. Scores range on a 0-100 scale. A higher score indicates greater disability.
Time frame: Baseline, Week 2, Week 6, Week 12
Change in SF-12 QOL
The SF-12 QOL is a self-administered measure asking views about participant's health and how well they are able to perform usual activities.
Time frame: Baseline, Month 3
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