A new thermoplastic splint for proximal interphalangeal joint flexion contractures.
BACKGROUND
Aim of this technical note is to describe the fabrication procedure of a new thermoplastic static-progressive hand-based splint for PIP joint flexion contractures, and report its effects in the treatment of a small group of sportsmen.


METHODS
The serial-static splint consists of a short metacarpal gauntlet base, with a hole for the thumb and a dorsal finger gutter that extends to the distal extremity. A low-temperature thermoplastic material, two loop fastener straps, three small pieces of self-adhesive hook fastener and cooling spray are required. The orthosis has been tested on four professional volleyball players (3 females and 1 male), aged 18-24 years, suffering from PIP joint flexion contractures after traumatic hand injuries occurred 2 to 3 months before. Patients wore the splint for 1 hour followed by 1 hour of rest (6 times per day), for 2 to 3 weeks. During the resting periods patients performed a few sets of active ROM exercises at their PIP joint.


RESULTS
This new splint design demonstrated to be effective in early recovery of complete PIP joint extension and subjects resumed soon their sports activity.


CONCLUSIONS
Our device is easy to fabricate and to use and comfortable for patients.
Benaglia
P G
PG
Service of Occupational Rehabilitation and Ergonomics, S. Maugert Foundation, IRCCS Rehabilitation Institute of Veruno, Novara, Italy.
Sartorio
F
F
Franchignoni
F
F
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003286:Contracture / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010969:Plastics; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D013165:Splints
D010969:Plastics