Effect of Dynamic Hand Splint on Hand ROM Post Extensor Tendon Repair

The extensor muscles to the digits are weaker; their capacity for work and their amplitude of glide are less than those of their flexor antagonists, yet they require a latitude of motion that is not necessary for flexor function. Extensor tendons are thinner and broader than flexor tendons. They are superficial in comparison with the flexor tendons, allowing adhesion to the fascial layers and skin. They have a broad tendon-to-bone interface that can result in dense adhesions. Shortening of the extensor tendon because of surgery may result in difficulty regaining full flexion. Dorsal swelling may prevent the tendons from gliding. Recreating the normal balance between intrinsic and extrinsic muscle/tendon units can be a challenging task for surgeons and therapists following extensor tendon injury. Common functional complications include loss of flexion, extensor lag, and decreased grip strength. To prevent these complications, extensor tendon approaches, similar to flexor tendon approaches, have evolved to include controlled passive and active mobilization using a dynamic splint immediately following surgery