A comparison of Vitrathene moulded with Tweeklon ready-made wrist work splints in juvenile chronic arthritis

A comparatiave study of purpose-made Vitrathene with a ready-made Tweeklon splint has been undertaken in 20 children with juvenile chronic arthritis who had such severe wrist and carpal involvement that a work splint was considered desirable. In half the dominant hand was splinted with Vitrathene and the other half Tweeklon. Assessments included the presence of soft-tissue swelling, extensor tenosynovitis and pain, together with the position and range of movement of the wrist, grip strength and functional tests. Tests included: maintenance of functional position, grip strength, dexterity, wear-resistance, and weight. Although the Vitrathene splint appeared better in the study, it was made by an experienced occupational therapist. The Tweeklon was applied by a physiotherapist reading the instructions which accompanied it; this took about a quarter of the time required to make the Vitrathene splints.