Distal radius fracture in a young occupational therapist: professional identity in the face of injury

Abstract

Starting point: Distal radius fracture is one of the most common injuries of the upper limb and can significantly affect hand function, self-sufficiency in activities of daily living (ADL) and professional employment. For healthcare workers in rehabilitation fields, the injury can interfere with the perception of professional competence and identity. The aim of this case report is to present objective clinical results of targeted occupational therapy and analyze the impact of this experience on the transformation of the professional role of a healthcare worker.

Subject and methods: The case report describes the case of a 26-year-old occupational therapist who suffered an intraarticular multifragmentary fracture of the distal radius (Colles type) on the non-dominant left upper limb. Treatment was conservative with immobilization for 5 weeks. Subsequent intensive occupational therapy intervention (6 weeks) was focused on restoring range of motion (ROM), muscle strength (measured with a Jamar dynamometer) and sensorimotor functions. Standardized tools (Visual Analogue Pain Scale - VAS, Barthel Index and specific DASH questionnaire) were used to assess limitations in daily life.

Results: Early initiation of comprehensive occupational therapy led to gradual full restoration of hand function. Output testing demonstrated an increase in muscle grip strength from the initial 4 kg to 28 kg and an adjustment of the DASH score from 68.2 to 2.3 points. There was a full restoration of self-sufficiency and a safe return to the demanding clinical performance of the profession.

Conclusions: The case study demonstrates the effectiveness of a structured occupational therapy protocol based on the principles of evidence-based medicine (EBM). Physical limitations associated with an injury to the dominant organ of a health worker's work may not lead to a disruption of his professional identity, but can contribute to the development of clinical empathy and a deeper understanding of the psychosocial dimension of the rehabilitation process through guided self-reflection and resilience.