摘要 |
<p>The invention relates to a device and a method for counteracting spasticity by long-lasting tension of affected muscles and spasticity-arresting positioning of affected body parts. In this connection it is important to extend wrists and fingers and to abduct fingers. It is especially essential to produce full, or next to full, radial abduction and full dorsal flexion of the thumb. Clasp reflex stimuli are prevented by avoidance of contact with palmar hand portions. The invention satisfies those aspects by use of a first splint (2), the proximal end of which is attached to the forearm of a patient by means of retention straps (4, 5) and the distal end of which embraces the finger tips of the hand. In this way the wrist and the fingers are extended. A second splint (3) mounted on the first splint by means of a screw (8) extends the thumb and brings it into full dorsal flexion, simultaneously permitting optional adjustment and fixation of the radial abduction of the thumb. The primary use of the invention concerns counteracting spasticity in hands and arms but it does also secondarily counteract spasticity in adjacent and other parts of the body.</p> |