• Home
• Optimizing Patient Outcomes with Resting Hand Splints

Optimizing Patient Outcomes with Resting Hand Splints

Resting hand splints are essential therapeutic tools in occupational therapy, offering support and protection for individuals with various hand and wrist conditions. Whether you're recovering from an injury, managing symptoms of a chronic condition like rheumatoid arthritis, or rehabilitating post-stroke, a resting hand splint may play a significant role in improving comfort and function. 

What is a Resting Hand Splint Used For?  

A resting hand splint is a rigid orthotic device designed to maintain the hand, wrist, and fingers in a neutral position. It is often crafted from thermoplastic material, ensuring durability while allowing for custom molding to fit an individual’s unique anatomy.  

One of its primary uses is to immobilize the wrists and hands, preventing unnecessary movement and stress. This is essential for recovery after trauma, surgery, or nerve damage. For instance, a resting hand splint can help reduce pain and swelling in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or after a hand injury.  

It is also commonly prescribed in occupational therapy to manage spasticity, a condition that causes muscles to contract and stiffen uncontrollably. Spasticity is often experienced by stroke survivors or individuals with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy.  

Resting hand splints also serve to preserve joint alignment and prevent contractures. For example, someone who has trouble opening or closing their hand due to muscle rigidity may benefit from a resting hand splint equipped with finger separators. These separators reduce pressure and friction between the fingers, promoting better alignment and comfort.  

How Long Should a Resting Hand Splint Be Worn? 

The duration for wearing a resting hand splint varies widely depending on individual needs and the underlying medical condition. If you’ve recently undergone surgery or are recovering from an injury, your doctor or occupational therapist may advise you to wear your splint for several hours daily to protect your wrists, hands, and fingers while the soft tissues heal.  

For chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, splints are often used during flare-ups to minimize pain and inflammation. Some individuals may only need to wear the splint for short-term immobilization, while others might use it daily for months or even years to maintain joint positioning and reduce discomfort.   

It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations on wear time. Overuse of a resting hand splint may lead to muscle stiffness, while underuse may hinder its therapeutic benefits. Regular check-ins with your occupational therapist can help ensure the splint is meeting your needs effectively.  

Should I Wear My Hand Splint to Bed? 

Wearing a resting hand splint to bed is a common recommendation, particularly for individuals suffering from neurological conditions or severe joint deformities. During sleep, muscles naturally relax, which might cause misalignment or strain in affected joints if adequate support isn’t provided. A resting hand splint helps maintain the proper position of the hand, wrist, and fingers throughout the night, reducing the risk of muscle contractures or stiffness.  

For example, stroke patients often experience spasticity or curled fingers due to increased muscle tone, making it difficult to stretch their hands and fingers naturally. By wearing the splint to bed, they can prevent further joint deformities and improve hand alignment over time.  

However, not everyone needs to wear a splint overnight. It can sometimes feel uncomfortable or disrupt restful sleep. If this happens, consult your healthcare provider—your treatment plan might be adjusted to allow for breaks or alternative therapies.  

What are the Indications for a Resting Hand Splint? 

Resting hand splints are prescribed for a variety of medical reasons, often customized to treat specific conditions or injuries affecting the hands and fingers. Some of the most common indications include:  

• Neurological Conditions: Resting hand splints are invaluable for individuals with neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or brain injury. Spasticity is a frequent problem in these cases, and splints help control involuntary muscle contractions.  
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: For those with rheumatoid arthritis, resting hand splints can minimize stress on inflamed joints, alleviating pain and preventing deformities. Specially designed thermoplastic splints can be customized to provide both support and comfort, even during flare-ups.  
• Post-Surgical Recovery: After surgery on the hand, wrist, or fingers, resting hand splints aid in immobilization to promote tissue healing. They also help maintain joint alignment, reducing the likelihood of rigidity or scar tissue formation.  
• Trauma or Injury: Individuals recovering from fractures, tendon injuries, or sprains may require resting hand splints to stabilize the area and prevent further harm.  
• Prevention of Contractures: Contractures—permanent shortening of muscles or joints—can result from extended immobility. Resting hand splints are crucial in preventing contractures for bedridden individuals or those with limited mobility.  
• Hand Positioning for Comfort: For individuals who experience pain due to prolonged muscle tension in the hands and fingers, a resting hand splint can help ensure a comfortable resting position.  

Resting Hand Splint vs. Functional Hand Splint 

It’s worth noting the distinction between functional and resting hand splints. A resting hand splint maintains the hand in a neutral, non-working position, primarily for immobilization and comfort. A functional hand splint, on the other hand, supports the hand during active functions or movements, such as grasping or gripping. While they serve different purposes, both offer vital assistance in improving hand conditions.  

Choosing the Right Resting Hand Splint 

Resting hand splints are a vital component in the management of various hand and wrist conditions. Their success depends on appropriate selection, precise fitting, and patient compliance. Therefore, it is essential to work closely with a healthcare professional to ensure the right fit and positioning. The proper use of a resting hand splint can be life-changing, offering pain relief, protection, and improved mobility for people with hand and wrist concerns.