A method of rehabilitating the C6 tetraplegic hand

One of the important aspects of total rehabilitation of the C6 tetraplegic is the fitting and application of flexor-hinge hand orthoses. It has been proved that through the use of these orthoses the tetraplegic is able to maintain a high standard of independence in work and every day life activities. Successful fitting is dependent on two major aspects: (a) accurate fitting; (b) functional training in the use of the orthosis. These two aspects are discussed in the paper. A case history of two tetraplegics is also given to illustrate the degree of functional independence achieved with flexor-hinge hand splints.