title: Randomized controlled trial of daily total end range time (TERT) for Capener splinting of the stiff proximal interphalangeal joint.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Capener splinting is a common treatment for extension deficit of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. This study compared the effect of daily splint total end range time (TERT) of 6-12 hr versus 12-16 hr.
  
  
  METHODS
  Twenty-two participants with extension deficits of the PIP joint were randomly allocated to a daily TERT of 6-12 hr or 12-16 hr. Progress after 8 wk of splinting was evaluated.
  
  
  RESULTS
  No significant difference was found in change in extension range of motion (ROM) between groups (active ROM, F[4, 17] = 2.19, p = .13; passive ROM, F[4, 17] = 0.95, p = .46; torque ROM, F[4, 17] = 1.49, p = .26). Considerable crossover between groups resulted in a similar average daily TERT (9.5 hr for the 6-12 hr group vs. 11.5 hr for the 12-16 hr group).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Further research with a larger sample is needed to determine whether longer daily TERT is beneficial. Our results suggest, however, that most patients find it difficult to wear splints >12 hr/day.
authors.affiliation: Hand and Upper Limb Rehabilitation Unit, EKCO Occupational Services, Brisbane, Queensland 4000 Australia. celesteg@tpg.com.au
authors.forename: Celeste
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Glasgow
authors.forename: Jenny
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Fleming
authors.forename: Leigh R
authors.initials: LR
authors.lastname: Tooth
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Peters
mesh_terms: D057186:Comparative Effectiveness Research; D005384:Finger Joint; D006801:Humans; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D013165:Splints; D013997:Time Factors