Unit 3: Upper Limb Orthotics Flashcards Preview

bmsc orthotics > Unit 3: Upper Limb Orthotics > Flashcards

Flashcards in Unit 3: Upper Limb Orthotics Deck (17)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

What are the main reasons for upper limb orthosis

A

Trauma (tendon/nerve/joint injuries or burns)
Following surgery
Arthritis
Neuromuscular problems

2
Q

What are the 3 groups that upper limb orthoses are divided into

A

Static orthoses
Dynamic orthoses
Combined static and dynamic (functional) orthoses

3
Q

Describe a static orthosis

A

No moving parts

Immobilises joints in a position to leave others free to move

4
Q

Disadvantages of static orthoses

A

Muscle atrophy
Stiffness of immobilised joints
Dependency

5
Q

How do dynamic orthoses achieve mobility

A

Wire, springs and elastic bands. These produce tension in the tissues to minimise inflammation, pain and oedema

6
Q

What are the functions of dynamic orthoses

A

Prevent/correct deformity
Improve joint motion
Resist undesirable motion

7
Q

Disadvantages of Functional orthoses

A

Bulky

8
Q

What is the most common problem encountered in upper limb orthotic management

A

Painful stiff hand

9
Q

What are the 2 main objective in upper limb orthoses prescription

A

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

10
Q

What position is a hand orthosis usually set in

A

The functional hand position: MTP flexion (35-40degrees) and IP extension

11
Q

What is the attitude of comfort or rest

A

The position of the hands when walking/sleeping/at leisure

12
Q

How does the position of rest differ from the functional hand position

A

Wrist in slight dorsiflexion with ulnar deviation

Thumb in opposition

13
Q

What factors are assessed prior to upper limb orthotic prescription

A
Mobility
Active/passive joint movement
Presence or absence of oedema
Muscle atrophy
Subluxation/dislocation of joints
14
Q

Give 5 indications for the use of a FO

A
Following surgery for Dupuytren's contracture
Boutonniere deformity
Swan neck deformity
Hypertrophied scar
Contracture following burns
15
Q

What are the indications for the use of WHO

A

Wrist OA
Neuromuscular problems
RA
Traumatic lesions: nerve/tendon injury, degloving, burns contractures, ischaemic problems following vascular injuries

16
Q

Why is the timing of a WHF orthosis critical

A

Too late = adhesions formed leading to contractures

Too early = may damage the tissues

17
Q

Why are externally powered upper limb orthoses rarely used

A

Complex and heavy