Orthoses for Mobilization of the Wrist

Course overview

Dynamic wrist orthoses that allow specific patterns of motion and block unwanted motion can be extremely beneficial in certain diagnoses and rehabilitation protocols, such as scapho-lunate ligament injuries. And static progressive and/or dynamic orthoses can help clients regain lost wrist joint motion after trauma or injuries have caused joint capsule shortening and stiffness. Therapists require core knowledge in upper extremity anatomy and clinical pathologies and an understanding of the biomechanical principles of orthotic fabrication in order to select the appropriate mobilization orthosis as an intervention for clients requiring mobilization of their wrist joints. Therapists also need hands-on practice to make well-fitting and appropriate dynamic and/ or static progressive orthoses for a variety of diagnoses affecting the wrist. They require awareness of pattern-making guidelines and the fabrication process using thermoplastic materials and advanced knowledge of appropriate dynamic and static progressive outrigger systems to aid in their orthotic design.