Pros and Cons of
Nonoperative Stretch Assist Devices
Each device is unique and will fit certain clinical situations better than others.
Pros
Dynamic Splints use a gentle load over a long period of time to stretch scar tissue and improve range of motion to treat your joint contracture. They are portable and can be used anywhere. It is best used with stroke or head injury patients who have difficulty using their opposite extremity to apply forces that the other devices require.
Cons
All splints use velcro to secure them to your limb which can be challenging either one handed or with diminished hand strength. These splints are designed to be used only to stretch one direction and must be worn for 8-12 hours per day to be effective.
Recovery takes months of treatment.
Pros
Static Progressive Splints use a low or moderate load in 30 minutes segments to treat your joint contracture. The brace is portable. These braces are best used with a young patient population that can use the torque knob to apply forces.
Cons
Static Progressive Splints use velcro to secure them to the limb and can be difficult to apply. They must be adjusted perfectly so that pressure sores do not develop during treatment. The knob used to apply pressure is hard to turn and requires increased hand strength.
Recovery takes months of treatment
Pros
The Ermi Flexionater machines are stepin-stepout making it the easiest to use. Force is applied by a hydraulic assist system and equals that of a Physical Therapist. Multiple directions can be treated in the same session with the flip of a switch. These machines can be used by all ages of patients.
Recovery takes weeks.
Cons
This machine is not portable and must remain at your house.
Pros
Motion Restoring Surgery is the most common Orthopedic solution for a Joint Contracture. It is the one that your surgeon has the most familiarity.
Cons
All Motion Restoring Surgery (MRS) including a simple manipulation under anesthesia has complications. The quick tearing of tissue adds scar tissue by causing additional bleeding. Commonly, MRS adds at 1 year of additional Physical Therapy.