Blog, Physiotherapy

Building Strength, Restoring Flexibility: Physiotherapy for Wrist Fracture Patients

A wrist fracture can be a huge setback, impacting not just the physicality of one’s hand but also the daily routines that we often take for granted. Whether it’s buttoning a shirt, typing on a keyboard, or simply grasping a doorknob, the effects of a wrist fracture can be pervasive and limiting. However, with the help of a trained physiotherapist, the recovery journey becomes a meaningful step towards regaining full function.

Our author, Jenny, is a certified musculoskeletal physiotherapist at MPhysio Sunnybank Clinic, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the realm of post-wrist fracture recovery. At MPhysio, we use our expertise to craft a personalised recovery plan that addresses the unique challenges posed by a wrist fracture. Let’s delve into the key aspects of a physiotherapist’s role in recovery after a wrist fracture.

Understanding the Impact of Wrist Fractures:

Wrist fractures can occur due to various reasons, such as falls, sports injuries, or accidents. Globally, wrist fractures have been found to be one of the most common types of fractures¹. Safe Work Australia has also suggested that wrist and hand injuries are the most common cause of work-related hospitalisation in Australia². The delicate nature of the wrist joint and its intricate network of bones and ligaments make it susceptible to fractures. When a fracture necessitates immobilisation in a cast or surgical intervention, the recovery process becomes a critical phase in restoring not only the structural integrity of the wrist but also its full range of motion and function.

The Physiotherapist’s Role in Post Wrist Fracture Recovery:

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the recovery process after a wrist fracture. The expertise of a physiotherapist is essential in creating a personalised recovery plan that addresses the specific challenges presented by the fracture. Let’s take a closer look at the key aspects of a physiotherapist’s role in recovery after a wrist fracture:

1. Early Mobilisation and Range of Motion Exercises: Right after the operation or being released from a cast, physiotherapists focus on facilitating early mobilisation. Gentle range of motion exercises are introduced to prevent stiffness and encourage blood circulation, creating a favourable environment for healing.
2. Strengthening Exercises: As the healing progresses, targeted strengthening exercises take precedence. Physiotherapists design exercises to rebuild the strength of the muscles around the wrist joint, gradually restoring its functional capacity. By not only considering the wrist, but also the joints and muscles involved at the elbow and hand, we ensure that no region is missed.
3. Pain Management Strategies: Post-operative (or post-fracture) pain is a common concern, and physiotherapists utilise various techniques for pain management. This may involve manual therapy, ice application, or other methods to alleviate discomfort and promote a smoother recovery.
4. Functional Activities Training: The ultimate goal of post-operative recovery is to enable individuals to resume their daily activities. Physiotherapists guide patients through specific functional activities tailored to their lifestyles, ensuring a smooth transition back to normalcy. Whether that be playing sport, cooking up a meal, or playing with your pets, we aim to be the propel you towards your goals.
5. Patient Education: An essential aspect of physiotherapy is patient education. Physiotherapists empower individuals with knowledge about their condition, the recovery process, and preventive measures. This education fosters a sense of agency, encouraging patients to actively participate in their rehabilitation.

In the context of recovering from a wrist fracture, the role of a physiotherapist is pivotal in guiding individuals from the initial stages of healing to the restoration of optimal function. Through a combination of targeted exercises, pain management strategies, and personalised guidance, physiotherapists work with you to assist in an effective recovery. While the journey towards recovery is important, it is not always linear or easy.

The road to recovery is unique for each individual and may include both progress and setbacks. Physiotherapists are there to support patients through the challenges, transforming them into stepping stones toward renewed hand function. If you or someone you know is on the path to recovery from a wrist fracture, remember that a physiotherapist’s expertise can make a significant difference. Despite potential bumps along the way, the journey is worthwhile for achieving lasting recovery.

For more information on wrist fracture recovery and musculoskeletal physiotherapy, visit MPhysio or call us on 1800 992 999.

Written By: Jenny Qian (Physiotherapist) B.AppSci (Phty) (Hon)

References

¹ GBD 2019 Fracture Collaborators (2021). Global, regional, and national burden of bone fractures in 204 countries and territories, 1990-2019: a systematic analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. The lancet. Healthy longevity, 2(9), e580–e592. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2666-7568(21)00172-0

² Hand injury statistics still high in Australia – yet most can be avoided (2023) Safe To Work. Available at: https://safetowork.com.au/hand-injury-statistics-still-high-in-australia-yet-most-can-be-avoided/