Algodystrophy is an early complication of Colles' fracture - What are the implications?

One hundred patients who had sustained a Colles' fracture were observed for features of algodystrophy at 1, 5, 9 and 12 weeks following injury. The diagnosis of algodystrophy was possible as soon as 1 week after fracture. Early diagnosis has important clinical implications: the aetiological factors may become apparent and different treatment modalities be identified furthermore, early treatment can be started, limiting the morbidity of the condition. It is proposed that patients with features of algodystrophy require physiotherapy after a Colles' fracture. Those without features may not.