Structural and Functional Nerve Changes Following Immobilisation After Distal Radius Fracture - a Pilot Study (NRP)

Immobilization after radius fracture seems to increase the risk of developing a Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a condition associated with pain, increased skin sensitivity and reduced epidermal nerve density. The purpose of the study is to determine whether 5-week immobilisation leads to functional and structural sensory changes, and whether the changes are associated with persistent pain. The investigators plan an explorative, pilot study on six consenting patients immobilised after a distal radius fracture. The baseline measurements will be recorded at the day of or the day after trauma: Demographics, psychological and physical comorbidity, pain characteristics and intensity, hand function, health related quality of life (HRQOL), quantitative sensory testing will be recorded while skin biopsies are analyzed for epidermal nerve fiber density. Following variables such as pain characteristics and intensity, hand function, health related quality of life, quantitative sensory testing and skin biopsies will be reassessed when the cast is removed and two months later.