Effect of Whole Body Vibration on Rehabilitation in Distal Radius Fractures

This study is designed as a single-center, randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate the effects of whole body vibration (WBV) added to conventional rehabilitation on functional and sensorimotor recovery in patients with conservatively treated distal radius fractures. Distal radius fractures are among the most common upper extremity injuries and may lead to pain, reduced range of motion, decreased muscle strength, and impaired proprioception following immobilization. These impairments can delay functional recovery and negatively affect the return to daily activities.

Whole body vibration is considered a complementary rehabilitation approach that can enhance neuromuscular activation through mechanical stimulation and may improve proprioceptive input via muscle spindle activation and afferent pathways. Therefore, WBV is thought to contribute to improvements in coordination, muscle performance, and overall functional outcomes.

A total of 66 participants who meet the inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned into two groups. The experimental group will receive WBV in addition to a conventional rehabilitation program, while the control group will receive only the conventional rehabilitation program. Both groups will undergo treatment three times per week for eight weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45-60 minutes.

The WBV intervention will be applied using a vibration platform at a frequency of 30-35 Hz and a low amplitude (2 mm). The intervention protocol will be progressively increased over time, and exercises will be performed in two positions: an upper extremity weight-bearing position and a semi-squat position.

All assessments will be conducted at baseline, week 4, and week 8 by a blinded assessor. The primary outcome measure will be the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE). Secondary outcome measures will include the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), joint position sense (JPS), grip strength, range of motion, and fine motor skills assessed by the Nine-Hole Peg Test.

The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the clinical effectiveness of WBV in distal radius fracture rehabilitation and contribute to the development of sensorimotor-oriented rehabilitation strategies.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults aged 18 to 65 years.
• Unilateral distal radius fracture treated conservatively with cast or splint.
• Completion of the immobilization period with radiologically confirmed stable callus formation.
• Referred for physiotherapy after conservative treatment.
• Able to understand study procedures and provide written informed consent.
• Initiation of rehabilitation within 72 hours after cast removal.

Exclusion criteria

• Previous surgery or severe trauma to the affected upper extremity.
• Open wound or active infection at the fracture site.
• Peripheral neuropathy or severe neurological disorders.
• Vestibular disorders or conditions contraindicating whole-body vibration therapy.
• Pregnancy.
• Severe osteoporosis.
• Active inflammatory or vascular disease affecting the upper extremity.
• Cognitive impairment preventing participation in the study.
• Inability to attend the rehabilitation program regularly.