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Efficacy of soft splints in reducing severe knee-flexion contractures
J P Anderson1, B Snow, F J Dorey
1Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, UCLA School of Medicine.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Soft splints effectively reduced severe knee-flexion contractures in cerebral palsy patients by an average of 24 degrees. This low-cost intervention shows high benefit-to-cost ratio, making it accessible globally.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Cerebral palsy frequently causes severe knee-flexion contractures.
- Contractures significantly impair mobility and quality of life in affected individuals.
- Existing treatments may be costly or invasive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of soft polyurethane foam splints in correcting knee-flexion contractures.
- To assess the impact of splinting on patients with cerebral palsy.
- To determine the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of this intervention.
Main Methods:
- Soft splints made from polyurethane foam were applied nightly for 10 months.
- Knee-flexion contracture angles were measured before and after the intervention period.
- Patient age and presence of bilateral contractures were considered.
Main Results:
- An average reduction of 24 degrees in knee-flexion contractures was observed across all patients.
- Younger patients showed greater percentage improvements and less severe initial contractures.
- A sympathetic reduction in the unsplinted limb was noted in cases of bilateral contractures.
Conclusions:
- Soft polyurethane foam splints are an effective, low-cost method for reducing knee-flexion contractures in cerebral palsy.
- The high benefit-to-cost ratio and affordability make this treatment suitable for diverse socioeconomic settings.
- Regular replacement of splints is recommended for sustained effectiveness.