Upper Extremity Orthotic Device

Giselle & Paul Werner

Description

Title:

Upper Extremity Orthotic Device

Creator:

Giselle & Paul Werner

Date:

6/20/2003

Text:

Dear List,
    I am currently working with a patient who has a primary diagnosis of C.P..
This gentleman has severe spacticity which has primarily affected his lower extremities. Due to the progression of his gait deviations, he has had numerous falls over the last few years. One of these falls resulted in an injury to the brachial plexus of his right upper extremity. The patient has no strength in his shoulder. His elbow has poor flexion and fair extension. The wrist has no flexion or extension strength. He has poor finger flexion and no finger extension. There is good ROM at all joints.
    My evaluation was done very quickly. The man was leaving my office from a follow-up visit for his lower extremity orthoses when he asked about something for his hand. I am confident that this evaluation is reasonably accurate, but of course I would check this more carefully before attempting any type of treatment.
    Unfortunately, my experience is limited to static splints to prevent contractures and an occasional Mannerfelt splint. This patient would like a dynamic orthosis to use his hand functionally. Does anyone have any suggestions as to how I can help this person? Is this a realistic goal? Thanks for any help I can get!

Paul Werner, CPO-LPO

                          

Citation

Giselle & Paul Werner, “Upper Extremity Orthotic Device,” Digital Resource Foundation for Orthotics and Prosthetics, accessed November 24, 2024, https://library.drfop.org/items/show/221427.