Effect of Early Daily Activities on Recovery After Wrist Fracture

The Impact of Early ADL Participation on Functional Outcomes Post Distal Radius Fracture

Phase 1 Interventional George Washington University · NCT05650996

This study is testing if getting back to daily activities early can help people recover better from wrist fractures compared to just following standard cast care instructions.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment64 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorGeorge Washington University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Washington, Virginia)
Trial IDNCT05650996 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial investigates the impact of early participation in daily activities on recovery outcomes for patients with distal radius fractures treated conservatively in a cast. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving educational materials on performing daily activities with the injured wrist, and the other receiving standard cast care instructions. Outcome measures will be assessed at multiple time points, including pain levels, mobility, and strength, to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. The study aims to provide insights into how early engagement in daily activities can influence recovery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are English-speaking adults over 18 years old who have sustained a distal radius fracture treated with a cast within the last three weeks.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing neurological or cognitive conditions affecting the upper limb may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance recovery outcomes and improve quality of life for patients with distal radius fractures.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with early rehabilitation approaches in similar contexts, suggesting potential for success in this trial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

English Speaking

DRFs treated with a cast

Individuals over the age of 18

Less than 3 weeks from DRF

Exclusion Criteria:

Individuals with pre-existing neurological conditions affecting the upper limb

Individuals with cognitive deficits that would limit the ability to correctly report information on outcome measures

Individuals with psychological deficits which would limit the ability to correctly report information on outcome measures

Individuals with multiple injuries to the affected upper limb

Individuals with multiple injuries to both upper limbs

Individuals requiring surgery to fixate the distal radius fracture

Prior distal radius fracture involving the same wrist

Individuals receiving hand therapy for another injury at enrollment into study

Where this trial is running

Washington, Virginia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Distal Radius FractureActivities of Daily LivingPatient Education
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.