Postoperative Immobilization and Physical Therapy Following Volar Locked Plating for Distal Radius Fractures

Participants will have their open reduction internal fixation of distal radius fractures treated with volar locked plating. for 2 weeks. Which will be replaced by a custom thermoplastic splint for 5 weeks.

Participants will also receive a prescription for formal physical therapy. Supervised physical therapy will be prescribed 1- 2 times per week for a total of 8 weeks along with a home exercise program. Active range of motion and strengthening exercises will be performed at home twice daily for 20 minutes for a total of 8 weeks.

Participants will be given a pamphlet with detailed instructions and demonstrations in home exercises. Active range of motion and strengthening exercises will be performed twice daily for 20 minutes for a total of 8 weeks.

Participants will have their open reduction internal fixation of distal radius fractures placed in a soft dressing which will be kept in place for 2 weeks.