Design and rationale of a new type progressive stretching static adjustable elbow splint for post-operative rehabilitation after elbow trauma or surgery

Among all the joints in the human body, the elbow joint is the one which most easily suffers from stiffness. Thus, a progressive stretching static adjustable elbow splint is necessary for a post-traumatic or post-operative situation in treating of elbow problems. We developed a new type of static adjustable elbow splint, which can provide flexion and extension in a wide range of motion. The splint also has a self-adjustable spiral rod. Patients can adjust the motion arc according to his tolerance, which may reduce the iatrogenic injury caused by forceful manipulation. The splint has two rotation hinges to provide self-adjustment of rotation center. We can apply this new type of splint for post-operative rehabilitation of elbow surgery, such as fracture-dislocation fixation, contracture release, arthroplasty and non-operative treatment of elbow injury.