Functional status and activity participation in patients with distal radius fracture: approach with ICF framework

Objectives: Distal radius fracture (DRF) affects overall health status. The International Function Classification (ICF) based approach offered a different perspective on DRF management. The aim was to investigate the effectiveness of the rehabilitation program administered in patients with DRF from an ICF perspective. Methods: In this prospective study, 53 patients were divided into conservative and surgical groups and were admitted to 12-weeks supervised rehabilitation program. Body structure and functions were evaluated with pain assessment, range of motion and muscle strength measurement. Also, radiographic evaluations were done. Activity participation was assessed with Push-Off Test (POT), Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHOQ), Quick Disabilities of Arm-Shoulder and Hand (Q-DASH) and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT). Measurements were made on the 2nd, 6th week and the 3rd, 6th months. Results: A total of 53 patients, 32 female (60.4%) and 21 male (39.6%) were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 47,43±12,20 (23-60) years. 35 (66%) patients were treated conservatively and 18 (34%) patients were surgically treated. There was no difference between groups in pain level, range of motion, grip strength, POT, MHOQ, Q-DASH, JTHFT and radiologic measurements (p>0,05). Conclusion: Creating an ICF-based assessment and intervention plan for the activity participation of patients with DRF guides hand surgeons and hand therapists in achieving their goals. [Hand Microsurg 2021; 10(1.000): 20-28