Currently dorsal resting hand splints must be made from scratch by the therapist using kits typically containing strapping and precut thermoplastic material. Unfortunately, this customization requires more of the therapist's time and expensive materials, leading to a high overall cost. Current resting hand orthoses compress the carpal tunnel area, do not prevent joint deformity, and do not influence muscle tone.
It is therefore a principle object of this invention to provide a dorsal resting hand orthosis which offers immobilization of the fingers, thumb, and wrist.
A further object of this invention is to provide a dorsal resting hand orthosis which does not compress the carpal tunnel area.
A still further object of this invention is to position in a functional alignment so as to retard further deformity.
A still further object of this invention is to prevent hyperextension of the wrist in the spastic patient.
A still further object of this invention is to provide for protection of tendons, joints, capsular and ligamentous structures, and spastic and transpierced nerves.
A still further object of this invention is to prevent inadvertent removal of the orthosis.
A still further object of this invention is to provide a dorsal resting hand orthosis having a liner that is not affixed to the supporting splint by structural features of the splint itself.
A still further object of this invention is to provide a dorsal hand orthosis that is cosmetically acceptable and which is contoured around the bony prominences of the hand, such as the ulna.
A still further object of this invention is to provide a dorsal resting hand orthosis which will provide a time- and cost-saving alternative to therapists.
These and other objects will be apparent to those skilled in the art.