Duration of wrist immobilization is associated with shoulder pain in patients with after wrist immobilization: an observational study

Abstract

The main goal of this study was to determinate the extent of the relationship between shoulder pain and time of wrist and thumb immobilization required after injury. One hundred twenty-three consecutive subjects presenting to the practice of different Orthopedic Specialist hospitals with a diagnosis of distal radius or scaphoid fracture that required wrist and thumb immobilization were screened for eligibility criteria. Upper extremity pain and the need for shoulder rehabilitation were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS) at baseline after immobilization period (T0) 1- and 3-month follow-up (1-FU/2-FU). More than 35% patients had shoulder pain (VAS>40 mm) after immobilization of the wrist. Shoulder pain intensity after immobilization and at follow-up (1 and 3 months) was strongly correlated with the duration of the immobilization. Immobilization for 3.5 weeks or longer was the strongest predictor for the need of subsequent shoulder rehabilitation. An increased the time of immobilization of the wrist is associated with an increase in shoulder pain and need for shoulder rehabilitation in patients after wrist fracture.

Functional Outcomes After Salvage Procedures for Wrist Trauma and Arthritis (Four-Corner Fusion, Proximal Row Carpectomy, Total Wrist Arthroplasty, Total Wrist Fusion, Wrist Denervation): A Review of Literature

“…Adams et al [37] demonstrated that, in young healthy subjects, limited wrist motion inevitably led to a statistically significant worsening of their ratings in activities of daily living (DASH, PRWE), and limited or completely restricted wrist motion with or without pain is subsequently accompanied by impaired power and performance both in elbow and shoulder [6,38]. In patients sustained TWF, the lowest scores found were for perineal hygiene, using a screwdriver, and trouble using the hand in tight spaces such as changing spark plugs on the family car, followed by writing, drinking from a glass, turning a doorknob, combing hair, and using a hammer (i.e.…”

Total Wrist Replacement: State of the Art, Challenges and Pitfalls: A Comparative Review

“…Limited or complete wrist or distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) motion with or without pain is subsequently followed by impaired power and performance both in elbow and shoulder [16,22,23]. This pattern can be compensated by increased activities of trunk and shoulder muscles (upper trapezius and deltoideus) or using the other unaffected hand or both hands more often but over a not clearly known time [24][25][26].…”