P-23 The Effectiveness of Contrast Bath on Reducing Hand and Wrist Pain

Buller Hallway

Intro: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of patient education compared to patient education and contrast bath, for alleviating symptoms of hand and wrist pain. Methods: Eight subjects were randomly assigned to either the control group (education only) or the treatment group (education and contrast bath). Upon Initial, mid and final Assessment, pain, strength, function and swelling was assessed. Descriptive data was analyzed and mixed model repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare differences between groups for the dependent variables. Data was considered significant at p= ≤0.05. Results: Friedman’s ANOVA found a significant difference for both groups for admit to discharge for wrist flexion (Chi square= 7, p= 0.008, df=1) and wrist extension (Chi square= 8, p=0.005, df=1). There was a significance found in the contrast bath treatment between admit and discharge for wrist flexion (Chi square=4, p=0.046, df=1) and wrist extension (Chi square=5, p=0.025, df=1). Subject’s AROM flexion and extension for the contrast bath group improved from baseline to final treatment. Conclusion: Contrast bath does not reduce hand and wrist pain, however, our results showed that contrast bath increased active range of motion for wrist flexion and extension and thus increases function.