Dynamic Splinting for Knee Flexion Contracture After Knee Surgery
Author Information
Author(s): Eric Finger, Willis F Buck
Primary Institution: Seton Southwest Hospital, Austin Texas, USA
Hypothesis
Can dynamic splinting effectively reduce knee flexion contracture and improve range of motion after total knee arthroplasty?
Conclusion
Dynamic splinting, when used alongside physical therapy, significantly improved the patient's knee extension from a deficit of -12° to full extension (0°).
Supporting Evidence
- Dynamic splinting was prescribed after physical therapy did not fully reduce the contracture.
- The patient's active range of motion improved significantly after using the dynamic splint.
- The patient was compliant with the therapy and motivated to use the splint.
Takeaway
A man had trouble straightening his knee after surgery, but using a special splint helped him get his knee back to normal.
Methodology
The patient underwent 28 physical therapy sessions followed by nightly use of a dynamic splint for eight weeks.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the involvement of an author employed by the splint manufacturer.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
61-year-old male, active in amateur golf and fitness training, with a history of knee injuries and surgeries.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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