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The effectiveness of turnbuckle splinting for elbow contractures
J J Gelinas1, K J Faber, S D Patterson
1Hand and Upper Limb Centre, St Joseph's Health Centre, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|March 4, 2000
Summary
Static progressive turnbuckle splinting effectively improved elbow range of motion in patients unresponsive to physiotherapy. This safe treatment option offers significant gains in elbow contracture management.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Elbow contractures significantly limit patient function.
- Conventional physiotherapy and splinting often fail for established elbow contractures.
- Static progressive turnbuckle splinting presents a potential treatment avenue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of static progressive turnbuckle splinting for elbow contractures.
- To assess outcomes in patients who previously failed physiotherapy.
Main Methods:
- 22 patients with elbow contractures were treated with static progressive turnbuckle splints.
- Treatment duration averaged 4.5 months.
- Range of motion was measured before and after splinting.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in elbow flexion range were observed (p=0.02 to p=0.0001).
- 11 patients achieved a functional arc of movement (30-130 degrees).
- 8 patients showed improvement, though not a functional arc; 6 were satisfied.
Conclusions:
- Static progressive turnbuckle splinting is a safe and effective treatment for refractory elbow contractures.
- It should be considered for patients who have not responded to conventional physiotherapy.
- The treatment offers a viable non-surgical option for many patients.