Upper Extremity Splinting & Orthotics

The Upper Extremity Splinting and Orthotics Program at Griffin Hospital is designed for a variety of patients who require custom splints to promote healing and provide protection of soft tissue or joint conditions, provide support and improve function when movement is weak or limited , and prevent or correct deformities caused by contractures.

Conditions that may benefit from a splint/orthotic intervention including:

1. Soft tissue and nerve conditions
   • Wrist and elbow tendinitis
   • Trigger finger
   • Carpal tunnel syndrome
   • Wrist drop
   • Claw hand
   • Peripheral neuropathies of the arm and hand
2. Joint conditions
   • Rheumatoid arthritis
   • Osteoarthritis
3. Traumatic conditions
   • Tendon lacerations
   • Crush injuries
   • Burns
   • Fractures
   • Finger amputations
4. Neurologically impaired or paralyzed arm and hand such as those observed in stroke, traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury
5. Congenital or acquired deformities of the hand and arm

What to Expect During Your Appointment

The program features a systematic evaluation by a skilled occupational therapist who will evaluate the need for splint/orthotic intervention. The intervention generally involves custom fabrication and functional training in the use of the splint as well as education in proper use and care of the splint.

Splint/orthotic interventions are not the sole intervention but rather an important component of a comprehensive therapy plan.

For patients to receive custom-made splints or orthotics, they must have physician referral that indicates “occupational therapy evaluation and treatment.”