Abstract

Colles’ fracture is one of the most common types of forearm fractures, affecting mainty women around the age of 60, most often those suffering from osteoporosis. On the basis of literature data and the authors’ own experiences, the article presents protocols of physiotherapeutic management ofpatients with fractures ofthe distal epiphysis ofthe radius and management of complications associated with these fractures. The therapeutic procedure consists of three basie stages. The first two are the repositioning and immobilization of the fracture, sometimes preceded by surgical intervention. The third stage consists in intensive physiotherapy aiming to speed up the bone healing process, restore as much wrist mobility as possible, restore limb strength and function, and prevent or cope with possible complications. Physiotherapists dealing with a Colles fracture employ a yariety of exercises using specialist equipment and modern manual therapy techniques, such as the „hold-relax techniques, Brian Mulligan’s MWM, and, in later stages, active exercises aga-inst resistance. The goal of the therapy is to achieve fuli range of motion in the joint, inerease muscle strength and improve pro-prioception. Working with the patient, the therapist can utilize appropriate equipment, functional exercises related to actMties ofda-ily living, and physical agents. As with any musculoskeletal injury, fractures of the distal epiphysis of the radius may be accompa-nied by various complications. These can be divided into early (loss of reposition, median nerve neuropathy etc.) and late complications. The latter group includes incorrect union of fractured bone, carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist instability etc. Early and appropriate physiotherapy may prevent many secondary complications and speed up fuli functional recovery of the patient.

Key words:

Colles fracture, exercises, mobilisations with movement, secondary complications