Effects of whirlpool and contrast baths on pain in patients with complex regional pain syndrome after wrist fractures

The Effects of Whirlpool Bath and Contrast Bath Treatments on Pain, Disability, Functionality and Grip Strength in Patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome After Distal Radius Fracture

NA · Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University · NCT06769373

This study is testing whether whirlpool and contrast baths can help reduce pain and improve function in adults with complex regional pain syndrome after a wrist fracture.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorAfyonkarahisar Health Sciences University (other)
Locations1 site (Afyonkarahisar, Afyonkarahisar)
Trial IDNCT06769373 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of whirlpool and contrast bath treatments on pain, disability, functionality, and grip strength in patients suffering from complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) following a distal radius fracture. The research focuses on patients aged 18-70 who have been conservatively treated for CRPS-type 1. The study aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for managing CRPS, which is often poorly understood and inadequately treated. By utilizing the Budapest diagnostic criteria, the study seeks to establish a clearer understanding of treatment efficacy in this patient population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients aged 18-70 with complex regional pain syndrome type-1 following a distal radius fracture treated conservatively.

Not a fit: Patients with surgical treatment for their distal radius fractures or other significant orthopedic or neurological conditions affecting the same upper extremity may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved pain management and functional recovery for patients with complex regional pain syndrome after wrist fractures.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence for effective treatments for CRPS-1, previous studies suggest that physical therapy methods like exercise can be beneficial, indicating potential for success with this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with complex regional pain syndrome type-1 (CRPS-type 1) after distal radius fracture, who were followed conservatively (long/short arm splint-cast) between the ages of 18-70, who applied to AFSU Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic. It is planned to use the Budapest diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of CRPS Type 1.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Orthopedic injuries (other accompanying orthopedic fractures, such as ulna fracture, carpal bone fractures),
* Other system injuries,
* Patients whose distal radius fractures were surgically treated,
* Patients who had previously undergone surgery on the same upper extremity,
* Nerve, tendon and artery injuries accompanying the fracture,
* Other neurological, orthopedic or rheumatological problems affecting the same upper extremity,
* Serious cardiovascular disease,
* Presence of active infection, active dermatitis, skin diseases such as pemphigus, febrile diseases,
* Presence of a fixed catheter in the area,
* Impaired temperature sensationin in the area.

Where this trial is running

Afyonkarahisar, Afyonkarahisar

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Distal Radius Fracture, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Whirlpool, Contrast bath, hydrotherapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.