Dynamic splinting of forearm rotational contracture after distal radius fracture.

Abstract

The results of dynamic forearm rotational splinting for the treatment of forearm rotational contractures in patients with acceptably aligned, healed distal radius fractures are documented. Fifteen patients with distal radius fractures that healed with < or =+5 mm ulnar variance and < or =20 degrees dorsal tilt had dynamic forearm rotational splinting for contractures that had failed conventional hand therapy. Average pronosupination arc before splinting was 83 degrees. Dynamic forearm rotational splinting increased forearm rotation by 52% to an average of 126 degrees. Only one patient with development of ectopic bone in the interosseous space during splinting failed to obtain at least 30 degrees pronation and supination after splinting. Dynamic forearm rotational splinting effectively treats rotational contractures in patients who have healed distal radius fractures that are in acceptable alignment.