Distal Radius Fracture: Early-Stage Rehabilitation
Presented by Ann Porretto-Loehrke
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In the primary care setting, distal radius fractures account for 24%–46% of all fractures. This is one of the most common diagnoses treated in the hand therapy clinic. Understanding the anatomical changes that can occur and being mindful of the potential complications can help shape your treatment plan to optimize your clinical outcome. This course is designed to guide occupational and physical therapists in the evaluation and early-stage treatment of distal radius fractures using an evidence-supported approach. Gain insight on how distal radius fractures can adversely affect proprioception, range of motion, and dexterity, with treatment suggestions for the first four to six weeks of therapy.
This course is part of our CHT Prep Program. Learn more about the full prep program here: MedBridge CHT Prep Program
Meet your instructor
Ann Porretto-Loehrke
Ann Porretto-Loehrke is a skilled clinician with a passion for teaching and clinical treatment of upper extremity disorders. She has been practicing for 30 years and teaching continuing education courses for the past 20. She is the Clinical Development Coordinator at the Hand to Shoulder Center in Appleton, Wisconsin. Ann is…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Structural Changes and Potential Complications Following Distal Radius Fracture
This chapter covers the pathomechanics of distal radius fractures and how those changes can affect the conservative or postoperative treatment plan. It also covers potential complications to monitor for that can adversely affect your patient's outcome, including tendon ruptures, triangular fibrocartilage injury, and complex regional pain syndrome.
2. Evaluation
What should you address on your first therapy visit? This chapter covers the tests and measures to perform on your initial visit as well as impairments to prioritize for your home program.
3. Treatment for the First 4–6 Weeks
Which patients need ongoing therapy? This chapter covers evidence-supported treatment techniques for those patients needing ongoing care. Deficits in range of motion, proprioception, and dexterity are critical impairments to address early to optimize functional recovery.
