Introduction & Rationale for use of Knee Splints:
The Comfy Knee Splint is a comfortable, easy to use splint geared to stabilizing / increasing Knee extension. The Orthosis prevents Knee contracture, while promoting increases functional positioning.
Basic to the use of any Orthosis are factors such as prevention of deformity by proper positioning, support of weakened segments, control stabilization of joints proximally to those activated, or prevention of substitution. Orthosis may also be used to correct present deformities. They are both therapeutic and functional.
Splints are used for the following functions:
1. Stabilize (immobilize) joints in a desired position to rest the joint, tendons, ligaments and muscles or maintain a certain bone alignment.
2. Prevent contracture or deformity.
3. Prevent unwanted motion.
4. Gradually stretches contracture to increase range of joint motion.
5. Substitute lost muscle function.
6. Relieve pain.
Assessment of the Patient for Knee splinting:
A visual assessment of the patient is performed while patient is in bed and/or while in the wheelchair. Patient to be observed for:
1. Active movement of the Knee (amount of Flexion & Extension)
2. Expression of pain
3. Skin condition of the lower extremity
4. Position of the knee (flexed or extended)
5. Any muscle spasms
Physical assessment of the patient is performed by physically assessing the amount of flexion and extension a patient has at the Knee joint. Passive Range of Motion (ROM) is performed to see the amount of joint movement that is possible when a trained medical personnel moves joint. Active Range of Motion (AROM) movement is how much range the patient has independently without assistance. Active Assistive ROM (AAROM) movement indicates how much ROM the patient has with some assistance from a trained medical professional.
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