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Comparison of whirlpool and wax treatments for hand therapy
Hoyrup G, Kjorvel L
Physiotherapy Canada 1986 Mar-Apr;38(2):79-82
clinical trial
4/10 [Eligibility criteria: Yes; Random allocation: Yes; Concealed allocation: No; Baseline comparability: No; Blind subjects: No; Blind therapists: No; Blind assessors: Yes; Adequate follow-up: No; Intention-to-treat analysis: No; Between-group comparisons: Yes; Point estimates and variability: Yes. Note: Eligibility criteria item does not contribute to total score] *This score has been confirmed*

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of whirlpool baths (hand dependent) and wax baths (hand elevated) on a patient's hand volume, range of movement and pain. The effects of exercising or not exercising during the heat treatment were also considered. Forty-two subjects with traumatic hand injuries were randomly placed in one of four groups: whirlpool bath, with the hand actively exercised; whirlpool bath, with the hand relaxed; wax treatment, with the hand actively exercised; or wax treatment, with the hand relaxed. Subjects were measured for hand volume, range of movement and level of pain, immediately prior to and following treatment, for three weeks. The conclusion was that there was no significant difference between the four groups regarding changes in hand volume, range of movement, or pain levels (p = 0.05, F test). All subjects showed significant improvements in range of movement and pain levels (p = 0.05, t test) and showed a decreased volume which was not significant (p = 0.05, t test).

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