title: Congenital absence of the radius: the occupational therapist and a new orthosis.
abstract: Congenital absence of the radius (radial club hand) is a relatively common and disabling limb deficiency characterized by dislocation of the hand and carpus from the single forearm bore, the ulna. An understanding of the clinical-pathologic anatomy and consequent disruption of hand mechanics enables the orthopedic surgeon and the occupational therapist to formulate a team approach to this birth defect that can result in maximum functional capability for the child. The role of the occupational therapist and a specific therapy program for early stimulation and achievement of hand function are described. Orthotic support of the arm is indispensable to successful management. The design and fabrication of a dynamic upper-extremity orthosis for radial club hand is presented.
mesh_terms: D002657:Child Development; D006225:Hand / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D009048:Motor Skills; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D009989:Orthotic Devices; D011884:Radius / Q000002:abnormalities*; D013165:Splints; D014457:Ulna / Q000601:surgery