Unit 3: Upper Limb Orthotics Flashcards
What are the main reasons for upper limb orthosis
Trauma (tendon/nerve/joint injuries or burns)
Following surgery
Arthritis
Neuromuscular problems
What are the 3 groups that upper limb orthoses are divided into
Static orthoses
Dynamic orthoses
Combined static and dynamic (functional) orthoses
Describe a static orthosis
No moving parts
Immobilises joints in a position to leave others free to move
Disadvantages of static orthoses
Muscle atrophy
Stiffness of immobilised joints
Dependency
How do dynamic orthoses achieve mobility
Wire, springs and elastic bands. These produce tension in the tissues to minimise inflammation, pain and oedema
What are the functions of dynamic orthoses
Prevent/correct deformity
Improve joint motion
Resist undesirable motion
Disadvantages of Functional orthoses
Bulky
What is the most common problem encountered in upper limb orthotic management
Painful stiff hand
What are the 2 main objective in upper limb orthoses prescription
To reposition the affected joint from an attitude of deformity to a position of function
To maintain joint mobility, esp. when prescribed following trauma and injury
What position is a hand orthosis usually set in
The functional hand position: MTP flexion (35-40degrees) and IP extension
What is the attitude of comfort or rest
The position of the hands when walking/sleeping/at leisure
How does the position of rest differ from the functional hand position
Wrist in slight dorsiflexion with ulnar deviation
Thumb in opposition
What factors are assessed prior to upper limb orthotic prescription
Mobility Active/passive joint movement Presence or absence of oedema Muscle atrophy Subluxation/dislocation of joints
Give 5 indications for the use of a FO
Following surgery for Dupuytren's contracture Boutonniere deformity Swan neck deformity Hypertrophied scar Contracture following burns
What are the indications for the use of WHO
Wrist OA
Neuromuscular problems
RA
Traumatic lesions: nerve/tendon injury, degloving, burns contractures, ischaemic problems following vascular injuries
