Q: I am a high school senior with rheumatoid arthritis, and in the past I have worn a plastic splint on my elbow to straighten it. However, the splint is large and heavy and a pain to wear, especially at night. Are you aware of splints made out of lighter, easier-to-wear materials?
A: Good news! There's a good chance you can get a lighter-weight splint. First I would recommend that you speak to your doctor to find out the purpose of the splint he has prescribed, because there are basically two types of splints. One, which is relatively light to begin with, is designed to increase the joint's range of motion. It works by adjusting to progressively straighten the joint to keep it from becoming fixed in one position. The second type, which is often made of heavier molded plastic, is designed to hold the joint in one particular position. By doing so, the splint serves as kind of a "bed" to allow the joint and muscles surrounding it to rest.
Because you say your splint is heavy, I assume the second type I've mentioned is the type you have. In either case, there are some new lighter-weight versions on the market. Once you have learned from your doctor the type of splint you need, see an occupational therapist (OT), who will probably be able to make or order one for you. If your OT is unfamiliar with lighter-weight splints, a certified hand therapist may be able to help you.
Dena Slonaker, OTR, Occupational therapist
A More Comfortable Splint
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Maxine
16 Feb 2010, 22:42
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| I have had RA for 15 years and I use splints for my hands when I do things that can put too much pressure on my sore joints (like gardening or lifting heavy dishes). I've had several kinds over the years so you need to search for the ones that work well with you. I like to be able to take them off quickly in case I need to get my hands wet, etc. When my wrists hurt a lot the splints help to relieve pain. You can check with an Orthopedic or Physical Therapist to get some ideas on the kinds available. |
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Charlotte Robinson
30 Mar 2009, 13:56
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| Start moving your wrists right away in the morning. If you have a hot wax machine that really helps. I would highly reccommend getting one. Goood luck Susan. |
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Charlotte Robinson
30 Mar 2009, 13:55
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| My RA doctor has never mentioned the use of splints. Is this something I need to ask about? |
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Susan
30 Mar 2009, 11:10
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| I have RA in my wrists. I am so afriad that my hands will become "claws"
so I am eager to try anything that will prevent this. Does anyone has any suggestions to make my hands more limber & stronger? |
