Exploring the experience of rehabilitation in clients who have sustained a wrist fracture of the dominant side

Abstract

Background: The dominant hand plays a significant role in performing most daily tasks, and injuries to it tend to result in greater functional challenges than those involving the non-dominant hand (Wollstein et al., 2021). Aims: This study aimed to examine the rehabilitation process experienced by individuals recovering from wrist fractures in their dominant hand. It also aimed to explore the challenges participants faced in occupational performance and any changes they experienced in work, self-care and leisure activities following the injury. Method: A qualitative research design was adopted for this study. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling and had to meet the inclusion criteria of being aged 18 or over, having sustained a wrist fracture in their dominant hand and receiving occupational therapy at the outpatient hand rehabilitation services. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with six individuals, which were conducted upon their discharge from OT services. This data was then analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. Findings: Five main themes were identified: ‘Disruptions of Occupations and Daily Routines’, ‘Physical Changes’, ‘Emotional Aspects: Frustration and Acceptance of Change’, ‘Experience of Rehabilitation and Perceived Effects of Therapy and ‘Social Support and Participation’. Within these themes, participants described difficulties in work, self-care and leisure, along with physical symptoms such as pain, swelling, and limited movement. Many adapted to these challenges, although some reported lasting limitations. Furthermore, participants initially expressed frustration, which gradually shifted toward acceptance of their limitations. Therapy was generally viewed as helpful in improving function, and social support played a crucial role in maintaining participation during recovery. Discussion: The findings highlight how a wrist fracture in the dominant hand can disrupt occupational roles and daily routines, significantly affecting occupational performance. This can lead to increased reliance on others, which may have a greater impact on individuals who cannot rely on ongoing assistance. The physical, emotional and functional challenges experienced by participants emphasise the importance of continuing client-centred care in occupational therapy. These findings also underscore the value of providing continued support after discharge for individuals experiencing ongoing challenges, though the feasibility of such follow-up care may be shaped by practical limitations, such as resource availability and service capacity.