Comparing rehabilitation methods for wrist fractures in younger adults
Supervised Therapy Versus a Standardized Home-Based Program Versus No Formal Therapy for Uncomplicated, Nonoperatively Treated Distal Radius Fracture in Adults Under 50: A Three-Arm, Parallel-Group Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing three different rehab methods for wrist fractures in younger adults to see which one helps them recover better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 96 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Al Hayah University In Cairo Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cairo) |
| Trial ID | NCT06913894 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial evaluates the effectiveness of three rehabilitation strategies for uncomplicated distal radius fractures in adults aged 18-50. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: supervised therapy with physical therapist sessions and home exercises, a structured home-based exercise program with weekly follow-ups, or minimal intervention with basic instructions. The primary outcome will be assessed using the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation at 6 weeks and 6 months post-treatment. This study aims to clarify optimal rehabilitation approaches to enhance recovery and reduce healthcare usage.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-50 with uncomplicated, nonoperatively treated distal radius fractures.
Not a fit: Patients with intra-articular or unstable fractures, those requiring surgical intervention, or individuals with significant comorbidities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide evidence-based recommendations for the best rehabilitation strategy, potentially improving recovery outcomes for patients with wrist fractures.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited consensus on rehabilitation for distal radius fractures, similar studies have explored various rehabilitation strategies, indicating potential for meaningful insights.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Adults aged 18-50 years. Diagnosed with an extra-articular, stable distal radius fracture treated nonoperatively with a short-arm cast for approximately 4-6 weeks. The fracture is uncomplicated (no significant soft-tissue injury, no evidence of CRPS, and no other major complications). Willing to provide written informed consent and comply with follow-up assessments. Exclusion Criteria: Intra-articular or unstable fracture patterns. Surgical intervention planned or performed for the distal radius fracture. Presence of significant comorbidities (e.g., chronic inflammatory arthritis or severe neurological impairment affecting the injured limb). Fracture complications such as CRPS or major soft-tissue injury. Inability to comply with study procedures or follow-up assessments. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
Where this trial is running
Cairo
- Faculty of Physical Therapy, Al Hayah University — Cairo, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ibrahim Zoheiry, Ph.D
- Email: ibrahim.alzoheiry@hotmail.com
- Phone: 01277774949
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.