Importance of early physiotherapy intervention in a patient with compound radius and ulnar fracture of upper limb

Gloria Francis, Mohammed Irshad Qureshi, Rakesh Krishna Kovela

Department of Neuro Physiotherapy, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Datta Meghe Institute of Med. Sci., Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra, india

ABSTRACT

Distal radius and ulnar fractures usually have a significant role in affecting the functions of hand. They are the most common fractures of the forearm caused by either direct trauma (hit by bat) or indirect trauma (fall). Important clinical features are pain, swelling and decreased forearm and hand functions. These fractures are diagnosed by X-rays and usually managed either conservatively if the fragments are not displaced or by open reduction if the fragments are displaced. The present case report is of a female of age 55 years met with an accident 3 weeks prior. She was operated on the next day with open reduction and internal fixation and physiotherapy started immediately the next day. Patient was given early physiotherapy training to fingers and shoulder joint of left side to prevent disuse atrophy and to improve circulation. Along with this the patient was also encouraged to perform gripping activities of affected hand, Thumb movements an also generalised active movements for rest of the extremities both upper and lower limbs. Patient was even taught about the breathing exercises and breathing control training to promote active participation. Patient was receiving physiotherapy for two weeks. At the end of two weeks patient was not having any swelling or oedema in the extremity and movements were preserved in other joints of affected extremity and unaffected upper limb and lower limbs. Patient was able to do her activities of daily living by herself and has good balance while sitting, standing and walking. This case report signifies the importance early physiotherapy for compound fractures of forearm.

Keywords:

Radius fracture; Ulna fracture; Compound Fractures; Physiotherapy; Early Rehabilitation; Functional Activities