Application of modified progressive static splinting for treatment of traumatic metacarpophalangeal joint stiffness

Objective To investigate the application and efficacy of modified progressive static splinting (National Invention Patent No. 201610777015.8) in the treatment of traumatic metacarpophalangeal joint stiffness. Methods From October 2016 to December 2017, 32 cases (97 fingers) of traumatic metacarpophalangeal joint stiffness were treated in our hospital. Among them, 16 cases (48 fingers) were given routine rehabilitation and progressive static splinting (group A) and 16 cases (49 fingers) were given routine rehabilitation and modified progressive static splinting (group B). The active and passive range of motion (AROM, PROM), visual analogue scale (VAS), Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test (MMDT), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, Semmes-Weinstein Monofilaments Examination (SWME) of the two groups were compared before and 2, 4, 6 weeks after the treatment. Results Before the rehabilitation treatment, there was no significant difference in AROM, PROM, VAS, MMDT time, DASH and SWME value between the two groups (P>0.05). After the treatment, AROM and PROM increased significantly, MMDT time shortened significantly, DASH and VAS scores decreased significantly, and SWME value increased significantly (P< 0.05). After the treatment, AROM and PROM of group B were significantly greater than those of group A, MMDT time of group B was significantly shorter than that of group A, DASH and VAS scores of group B were significantly lower than those of group A, and SWME value of group B was significantly smaller than that of group A (P < 0.05). Conclusion The modified progressive static splinting is better than traditional progressive static splinting in the treatment of traumatic metacarpophalangeal joint stiffness. The treatment process is more comfortable. It is easier to improve the dexterity of the hand and the ability of daily activities. It is worthy of clinical application. Key words: Metacarpophalangeal joint; Rehabilitation; Splinting; 3D printing