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Functional Hand Splint

The Problem

Decreased function in the upper limb effects people of all ages with varying conditions, for example cerebral palsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Currently, treatment includes physiotherapy to increase/maintain soft tissue length and function. One way that this is achieved is through use of a ‘cone-shaped’ hand splint. A major limitation of this approach is that these ’cone-shaped’ devices do not allow the user to use tools or hold objects whilst maintaining the therapeutic hand position.

The Solution

The idea for a functional hand splint was conceived by Louis Bell, a physiotherapist from The Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust.

The device improves functionality in the hand and arm, by encouraging the user to perform manual tasks e.g. eating and painting or brushing teeth, whilst still maintaining a therapeutic hand position. The design was further developed by Teesside University, and patent applications have been filed in the UK and abroad. A licence agreement has now been signed with a UK based medical device manufacturer.
 

Benefits to the NHS

The device, originating from The Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Trust was developed, protected and commercialised in response to an identified clinical need.

For further information please contact Anna Taylor on 0191 5164400 or email anna.taylor@nhsinnovationsnorth.org.uk

24/Feb/2010

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