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A new thermoplastic splint for proximal interphalangeal joint flexion contractures
P G Benaglia1, F Sartorio, F Franchignoni
1Service of Occupational Rehabilitation and Ergonomics, S. Maugert Foundation, IRCCS Rehabilitation Institute of Veruno, Novara, Italy.
The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
|November 26, 1999
Summary
This study presents a new thermoplastic splint for treating proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint flexion contractures in athletes. The easy-to-fabricate splint effectively restored full PIP joint extension, enabling a swift return to sports.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic technology
- Rehabilitation engineering
- Sports medicine
Background:
- Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint flexion contractures can impair hand function, particularly in athletes.
- Traumatic hand injuries often lead to these contractures, requiring effective treatment solutions.
- Existing splinting methods may have limitations in fabrication or patient compliance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the fabrication of a novel thermoplastic static-progressive hand-based splint.
- To evaluate the efficacy of this new splint in treating PIP joint flexion contractures.
- To assess the impact of the splint on the return to sports for affected individuals.
Main Methods:
- A serial-static splint was fabricated using low-temperature thermoplastic material.
- The splint features a metacarpal gauntlet base and a dorsal finger gutter.
- The orthosis was applied to four professional volleyball players with traumatic PIP joint flexion contractures.
Main Results:
- The novel splint design facilitated early recovery of complete PIP joint extension.
- Subjects treated with the splint were able to resume their sports activities promptly.
- The fabricated splint demonstrated effectiveness in improving joint mobility.
Conclusions:
- The described thermoplastic splint is simple to fabricate and comfortable for patients.
- The device offers a practical and effective solution for managing PIP joint flexion contractures.
- Early intervention with this splint aids in the rapid return to athletic performance.