Effectiveness of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation as an Adjunct to Conventional Therapy in Conservatively Managed Distal Radius Fractures: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Distal radius fractures are most common injuries and cast immobilization being the method of traditional treatment. Thereby post immobilization wrist joint stiffness, swelling and pain are seen in patients. Rehabilitation with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques (PNF) activates motor units of muscles improving strength, promote movement and return of optimal function. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to find out whether PNF and conventional therapy can bring better functional outcomes in patients with conservatively managed distal radius fractures when compared to conventional therapy alone. Method: 54 subjects with conservatively managed distal radius fractures were selected randomly. The study included 2 groups, control group and experimental group, the outcomes measures included were Numerical rating pain scale (NRPS), range of motion (ROM), Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation Questionnaire (PRWE), Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH). Results: Both the groups showed statistically significant difference, in all parametric values (P <0.05) at 12th week. The mean difference, chi-square test values and paired t-test values of experimental group were greater in comparison to control group, at the end of 12 weeks. Conclusion: This study concludes that there were significant improvement seen in both the groups in NPRS, ROM, PRWE, DASH but the experimental group treated with PNF along with conventional therapy showed better results than control group treated with conventional therapy alone.