What is the typical purpose of using orthoses in hand therapy?

What is the typical purpose of using orthoses in hand therapy?

• A. Immobilize permanently
• B. Immobilize early to protect, mobilize later to correct
• C. Strengthen joints
• D. Allow full active movement at all times

Answer: (B)

Orthoses in hand therapy are used to balance protection of healing tissues with later mobilization to restore function. In the early phase after injury or surgery, immobilizing the involved joints helps protect repaired ligaments, tendons, or fractures, reduces pain, and controls swelling. As healing progresses, shifting to mobilization or dynamic support allows tendon glide, prevents adhesions, maintains proper joint alignment, and gradually retrains motion and strength. This approach avoids permanent immobilization, which can lead to stiffness and weakness, and it isn’t aimed at strengthening joints by itself. It also wouldn’t advocate allowing full active movement without protection when tissues are still healing.

Orthoses in hand therapy are used to balance protection of healing tissues with later mobilization to restore function. In the early phase after injury or surgery, immobilizing the involved joints helps protect repaired ligaments, tendons, or fractures, reduces pain, and controls swelling. As healing progresses, shifting to mobilization or dynamic support allows tendon glide, prevents adhesions, maintains proper joint alignment, and gradually retrains motion and strength. This approach avoids permanent immobilization, which can lead to stiffness and weakness, and it isn’t aimed at strengthening joints by itself. It also wouldn’t advocate allowing full active movement without protection when tissues are still healing.