Long-Term Use of a Static Hand-Wrist Orthosis in Chronic Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study. (27th February 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Andringa, Aukje; van de Port, Ingrid; Meijer, Jan-Willem
• Other Names: Feigin Valery Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Stroke research and treatment. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-02-27
• Subjects: Cerebrovascular disease -- Periodicals; Stroke; Cerebrovascular Disorders; Cerebrovascular disease; Periodicals; Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; 616.81
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/546093
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-8105

Abstract

Abstract : Background . Long-term splinting, using static orthoses to prevent contractures, is widely accepted in stroke patients with paresis of the upper limb. A number of stroke patients complain about increased pain and spasticity, which leads to the nonuse of the orthosis and a risk of developing a clenched fist. Objectives . Evaluating long-term use of static hand-wrist orthoses and experienced comfort in chronic stroke patients. Methods . Eleven stroke patients who were advised to use a static orthosis for at least one year ago were included. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted to explore the long-term use and experienced comfort with the orthosis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results . After at least one year, seven patients still wore the orthosis for the prescribed hours per day. Two patients were unable to wear the orthosis 8 hours per day, due to poor comfort. Two patients stopped using the orthosis because of an increase in spasticity or pain. Conclusions . These pilot data suggest that a number of stroke patients cannot tolerate a static orthosis over a long-term period because of discomfort. Without appropriate treatment opportunities, these patients will remain at risk of developing a clenched fist and will experience problems with daily activities and hygiene maintenance.