Efficacy of Mobilization with Movement in Patients with Colles’ Fracture: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Fracture of the distal radius or Colles’ Fracture mainly occurs due to fall on an outstretched hand and Physiotherapy plays an indispensable role in preventing postoperative complication namely hand stiffness. Mulligan concept of mobilization is a specific form of manual therapy technique that embraces skilled movements which is used to mobilize or manipulate soft tissues and joints with the target to improve tissue extensibility, increase in range of motion of joints, foster relaxation and reduce tissue swelling/ inflammation.

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of Mulligan concept of mobilization with movement technique and conventional physiotherapy treatment following postsurgical Colles’ Fracture in terms of range of motion and functional activities.

Methods: A total number of 36 patients were recruited for the study. They were divided into two groups: group I and group II. Group I (n= 18) was given mobilization with movement (MWM) along with wax bath and group II (n=18) was given conventional physiotherapy along with wax bath. The interventions were given for 7 days. The value of goniometer and Michigan hand outcome questionnaire (MHOQ) were taken both at baseline and after 7 days of interventions.

Results: After intervention, there were no significant differences between the groups as the collected information was summarized by using frequency percentage, for qualitative data; and mean, the standard deviation, Median and Inter Quartile Range (IQR) for quantitative data. To compare the difference in proportion Chi square test was used. To compare the ROM and Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire between two groups Independent sample t-test was used. Within the group comparison was analysed by using paired t-test. The p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant for the study.

Discussion: This study showed consistent with the previous studies as there was a significant improvement in the range of motion and hand functions between and within the groups.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that both the treatments are equally effective.