Static progressive stretching using a turnbuckle orthosis for elbow stiffness: a prospective study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Rehabilitation medicine
• Biomechanical engineering

Background:

• Elbow stiffness significantly impairs function after trauma or surgery.
• Restoring range of motion is crucial for patient recovery and quality of life.
• Traditional methods may have limitations in addressing severe or long-standing stiffness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a turnbuckle orthosis for enhancing elbow range of motion.
• To assess the effectiveness of static progressive stretching in patients with elbow stiffness.
• To determine the long-term maintenance of improved range of motion.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 28 patients (17 male, 11 female) with elbow stiffness underwent treatment with a turnbuckle orthosis.
• Patients used the orthosis for a mean of 15 hours daily, incorporating regular range-of-motion exercises.
• Range of motion and flexion contracture were measured monthly using a goniometer before and after treatment.

Main Results:

• Mean flexion contracture decreased from 59 to 27 degrees, and mean range of motion increased from 57 to 102 degrees.
• Nineteen patients achieved a functional range of motion.
• Improvements were maintained or further enhanced in 20 patients at a mean 29-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Static progressive stretching with a turnbuckle orthosis is a reliable treatment for elbow stiffness.
• This orthotic approach is a cost-effective method for improving elbow range of motion.
• The treatment demonstrates sustained efficacy, even for long-standing elbow contractures.