Abstract
Introduction
A rehabilitation group intervention has been an established treatment programme for patients with complex hand injuries requiring intensive therapy input.
Methods
A prospective audit of 20 patients was carried out to evaluate the outcomes of those attending the group with regard to improving hand function. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand assessment was employed as a before and after measure of outcome.
Results
Nineteen out of 20 patients demonstrated an improvement in their hand function following group intervention. Patients with injuries uncomplicated by complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) demonstrated the highest level of improvement. Patients with CRPS demonstrated the lowest level of improvement.
Discussion
Group therapy programmes are a valuable tool in delivering intensive therapy intervention to patients with complex hand injuries. Patients with injuries complicated by CRPS may benefit more from individualized therapy intervention.
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