Using neuromuscular stimulation and mirror therapy during immobilization for distal radius fractures
Early Neuromuscular Stimulation and Mirror Therapy Interventions During Immobilization of Distal Radius Fracture
NA · London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's · NCT05925673
This study is testing if using neuromuscular stimulation and mirror therapy while a wrist fracture is healing can help people recover better than just standard care.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (London, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT05925673 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and mirror therapy as early interventions during the immobilization period of distal radius fractures. Typically, rehabilitation begins only after the immobilization phase, which can lead to various impairments. The study will compare four groups: standard care, mirror therapy, neuromuscular stimulation, and a combination of both therapies during immobilization. The goal is to assess whether these interventions can reduce the negative consequences of immobilization compared to standard rehabilitation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have sustained a distal radius fracture within the last three weeks and are being managed conservatively in a cast.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive disorders, visual impairments, or other specified exclusions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce rehabilitation time and improve recovery outcomes for patients with distal radius fractures.
How similar studies have performed: While similar interventions have shown promise in stroke rehabilitation, this specific application in musculoskeletal populations is relatively novel and untested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Sustained a distal radius fracture in the last 3 weeks being managed conservatively in a cast * Able to understand instructions in English * Able to give informed consent (no known cognitive impairment that would limit this) Exclusion Criteria: * Cognitive disorders that would preclude the participant from following instructions and engaging in the home interventions * Visual impairments that limit ability to engage in NMES and mirror therapy interventions * Superficial metal implants in the injured arm * Cancer (active) * Severe peripheral vascular disease * Thrombophlebitis in injured arm
Where this trial is running
London, Ontario
- Roth | McFarlane Hand and Upper Limb Center — London, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Joy MacDermid, PhD — Western University
- Study coordinator: Joy MacDermid, PhD
- Email: jmacderm@uwo.ca
- Phone: 5196466100
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.
Conditions: Distal Radius Fracture, Neuromuscular Stimulation, Mirror Therapy, Early Intervention