Article

Different types of splints have been used as a conservative
intervention to improve symptoms in patients with Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).
Although a number of studies have been undertaken to compare different splints,
information and understanding of the influence of these interventions are
lacking. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of a
classic thermoplastic wrist splint or a wrist splint with an additional
metacarpophalangeal unit on pain, function, grip strength, and pinch strength in
patients with mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. STUDY DESIGN: Quasi
experimental design. METHODS: A total of 24 patients received conservative
treatment using either the classic wrist splint or the wrist splint with the
metacarpophalangeal unit for a period of 6 weeks. Primary outcome measures were
pain, function, grip strength, and pinch strength. Data were collected
immediately before and after using the two types of splints at baseline (0 weeks)
and 6 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using the paired t-test and an
independent t-test. RESULTS: Compared to baseline, both the classic thermoplastic
wrist splint and the wrist splint with a metacarpophalangeal unit significantly
decreased pain and increased function, pinch strength, and grip strength.
Comparisons of the two types of splints for grip strength (P = 0.675) and pinch
strength (P = 0.650) revealed that there were no significant differences between
the two after 6 weeks of wear. However, there were significant differences in
pain levels (P = 0.022) and the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score
(P = 0.027) between the two types of splints from baseline to 6 weeks.
CONCLUSION: The wrist splint with a metacarpophalangeal unit was more effective
than the classic thermoplastic wrist splint in pain reduction and improvement of
function. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A wrist splint with a metacarpophalangeal unit may
be an appropriate conservative treatment in the rehabilitation of patients with
mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome.
CI - (c) The International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics 2015.

Langue : ANGLAIS