A method of rehabilitating the C6 tetraplegic hand

Abstract

Abstract. One of the important aspects of total rehabilitation of the C6 tetraplegic is the fitting and application of flexor-hinge hand orthoses. It has been proved that through the use of these orthoses the tetraplegic is able to maintain a high standard of indepen dence in work and every day life activities.Successful fitting is dependent on two major aspects: (a) accurate fitting; (b) func tional training in the use of the orthosis. These two aspects are discussed in the paper.A case history of two tetraplegics is also given to illustrate the degree of functional inde pendence achieved with flexor-hinge hand splints.

A structured overview of trends and technologies used in dynamic hand orthoses

“…The alignment of anatomical and mechanical joints is the essence of many mechanical design papers on hand orthoses, which is especially the case for exoskeleton-based devices [ 4 ]. Misalignments may cause numerous sources of discomfort to the user, resulting in possible frustration by the user, rejection of the device and eventual hindrance in the rehabilitation program [ 102 ]. Even tissue damage can occur, where pressure sores, joint dislocations or cartilage damage are among the possibilities depending on the user [ 102 , 103 ].…”

“…Misalignments may cause numerous sources of discomfort to the user, resulting in possible frustration by the user, rejection of the device and eventual hindrance in the rehabilitation program [ 102 ]. Even tissue damage can occur, where pressure sores, joint dislocations or cartilage damage are among the possibilities depending on the user [ 102 , 103 ]. The main design challenges lie in limited available space, differences in hand sizes and coping with the compliance of skin tissue.…”