Early Neuromuscular Stimulation and Mirror Therapy Interventions During Immobilization of Distal Radius Fracture

Distal radius fractures are one of the most common orthopedic injuries require 6 to 8 weeks of immobilization for bone healing making it an ideal model to evaluate the negative consequences of immobilization. Consequences of immobilization include motor dysfunction (e.g. muscular atrophy), loss of the representation of motor and sensory function, and loss of fine motor skills. Current practice is to begin rehabilitation after immobilization to remediate these impairments. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation and mirror therapy are strategies that integrate neurological and musculoskeletal functioning, that can be used during immobilization to mitigate negative consequences. To date, these strategies have primarily been implemented in stroke rehabilitation, but minimal research has been done to assess their effectiveness with musculoskeletal populations. The study aim is to determine whether neuromuscular stimulation and mirror therapy interventions can be implemented during immobilization for distal radius fractures to minimize impairments when compared to standard rehabilitation. Four groups will be compared: group 1 will engage in standard care, group 2 will engage in a mirror therapy intervention during immobilization, group 3 will engage in a neuromuscular stimulation intervention during immobilization, and group 4 will engage in a combined mirror therapy + neuromuscular stimulation intervention during immobilization. Patient reported and objective outcome measures will be assessed at baseline (before starting intervention; 3 weeks), after cast removal and completion of the intervention (6 weeks), 8 (to 10) weeks, and 12 weeks post fracture. Ideally these interventions will improve outcomes and facilitate rehabilitation after distal radius fracture which could allow patients to return to their daily activities and work more readily after fracture.