Relative motion orthoses: A five-question decision making tool for thinking beyond thermoplastics

Area of Science:

• Orthotics and Prosthetics
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Hand Therapy

Background:

• Relative motion orthoses are crucial for managing hand and finger conditions.
• Clinical decision-making for orthosis selection can be complex.
• Standardized tools are needed to optimize the use of relative motion orthoses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a practical, five-question decision-making tool for relative motion orthosis (RMO) use.
• To assist clinicians in selecting appropriate RMOs based on specific patient needs and therapeutic goals.
• To provide a framework for considering material selection and patient-specific factors in RMO fabrication.

Main Methods:

• Development of a five-question decision-making tool.
• Inclusion of factors such as the primary aim of the orthosis, required motion, and number of fingers.
• Consideration of patient-specific characteristics and material options for fabrication.

Main Results:

• The decision tool systematically guides clinicians through key considerations for RMO prescription.
• It facilitates the selection of orthoses tailored to individual patient requirements.
• Clinical examples demonstrate the tool's utility and the diverse applications of RMOs.

Conclusions:

• The five-question tool simplifies and standardizes the process of prescribing relative motion orthoses.
• It enhances clinical decision-making, leading to more effective orthotic interventions.
• The tool supports the personalized fabrication and application of RMOs for improved patient outcomes.