| Objective: To investigate the clinical effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on upper limb function of patients with dislocation of elbow joint after conservative treatment. Method: Thirty patients with subluxation of elbow joint treated by manual reduction and plaster bandage fixation were randomly divided into to ESWT group (n=15) and control group (n=15). Both groups received the same treatment of elbow and upper limb rehabilitation. Additionally, the ESWT group was also given ESWT. They were evaluate with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), elbow Active Range of Motion (AROM), and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) before and after treatment. Results: Elbow AROM score was improved in the two groups after treatment as compared with that before the treatment (P<0.05), more significantly in the ESWT group than in the control group (P<0.05). VAS score and DASH score in both groups decreased after treatment as compared with those before the treatment (P<0.05), more significantly in the ESWT group than in the control group after the treatment (P<0.05). Conclusion: ESWT combined with upper limb function can improve the AROM and upper limb function of patients with dislocation of elbow joint after conservative treatment, and relieve pain effectively at the same time. |
