Self-efficacy corresponds to wrist function after combined plating of distal radius fractures

Abstract

Study design: A prospective cohort single-center study.

Introduction: Self-efficacy (SE) refers to beliefs in ones capabilities to organize and execute the courses of action required to produce given goals. High SE is an important factor for recovery from injury/illness; people who believe in their capability will more likely reach a good outcome.

Purpose of the study: The aim of this study was to examine if SE has an effect to physical functioning, pain and patient-rated wrist function three months postoperatively in patients undergoing plating due to a distal radius fracture.

Methods: Sixty-seven patients undergoing plating for a distal radius fracture rated SE at the first appointment with the physiotherapist. At the three-month follow-up, the following assessments were administered: Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), pain-scores, hand grip strength, and range of motion.

Results: The group with a high SE showed significantly better range of motion for flexion (P = .046) and supination (P = .045), hand grip strength (P = .001) and PRWE scores (P = .04). The NRS pain during activity was lower, although not significantly lower (P = .09). Using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, there was a moderate correlation between SE and pain during activity, wrist flexion, and PRWE score.

Discussion: SE corresponds to wrist function after combined plating of distal radius fractures.

Conclusion: Measurement of SE could possibly be useful to identify patients in special need of support during the postoperative rehabilitation.

Keywords: Distal radius fracture; Outcome; Self-efficacy; Wrist function.