Effect of Occupation-Based Intervention Using the ADOC-H Combined With Physical Function-Based Intervention on Patients With Distal Radius Fractures: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

Hong Kong J Occup Ther. 2023 Dec;36(2):101-109. doi: 10.1177/15691861231187240. Epub 2023 Jun 30.

Abstract

Objectives: Occupation-based intervention (OBI) involves daily and meaningful activities for evaluation and intervention. Recently, the "aid for decision-making in occupation choice for hand" (ADOC-H) was developed to facilitate OBI in patients with hand injuries. We aimed to examine the efficacy of OBI using the ADOC-H combined with physical function-based interventions (PBI) for patients with distal radius fractures (DRF).

Material and methods: Patients with DRF were retrospectively allocated to two groups, ADOC-H group (n = 14) and PBI group (n = 14), and compared.

Results: Improvements in the Pain Catastrophizing Scale magnification and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire scores were significantly higher in the ADOC-H group than in the PBI group (p < .05). The groups showed no differences in measure of physical function, such as range of motion and grip strength.

Conclusion: OBI using the ADOC-H combined with PBI is clinically useful for patients with DRF as it promotes use of the injured hand for daily activities in a step-by-step approach, improving psychological difficulties in using the hand.

Keywords: Distal radius fractures; digital decision aids; occupation-based intervention; patient-therapist goals; upper extremity.