An Effective Self-Wrist Extension Mobilization

An Effective Self-Wrist Extension Mobilization

Reference:Choung SD, Kwon OY, Park KN, Kim SH, Cynn HS. Short-term effects of self-mobilization with a strap on pain and range of motion of the wrist joint in patients with dorsal wrist pain when weight bearing through the hand: A case series. Man Ther. 2013 Jul 3. pii: S1356-689X(13)00114-8.

Dorsal wrist pain during extension activities in quite common post wrist fractures or sprains, and can often be persistent.

Although I rely on various Mulligan wrist mobilizations (MWMs) for helping my patients improve their pain and ROM, this study looked at the efficacy of a novel self-mobilization technique.

The effects of self-mobilization with a strap (SMWS) while weight bearing through the hand was studied on patients reporting of persistent dorsal wrist pain on weight-bearing.

They demonstrated that after only one week the self mobilization technique was beneficial in reducing dorsal wrist pain on weight-bearing and increasing wrist ROM.

The mid-point of the strap is placed across the proximal carpal bones, just below the distal end of the radius.

The patient is then instructed to passively extend the wrist by sitting up. The strap provides a volar glide of the proximal carpals the entire time.

At the onset of pain during the wrist extension, the patient then pulls the arm upwards, to distract the wrist joint space while maintaining volar gliding with the strap and maintain it for 10 seconds

The patient is instructed to repeat the technique 10 times with a 20 second rest period between each rep. The exercise is to be performed daily, once per day.

The patients in this study showed significant improvement in wrist extension ROM and pain with just one week of self-mobilization.

Posted on: August 30, 2013

Categories: Wrist & Hand