Application of a functional hand orthosis in individuals with brachial plexus injuries

Abstract

One of the diseases that cause severe disability and that directly affect the individual’ssocial participation and quality of life is the brachial plexus injury. One of the interventions widelyused in the rehabilitation program of the individual who suffered brachial plexus injury is themanufacture and prescription of orthoses. However the majority of currently available orthosis forbrachial plexus injuries, are used in order to positioning the upper limb and to relieve pain, withoutoffering the functionality to injured limb. The aim of this study was to describe the fi rst tests of aprototype orthosis for hand function, known as Functional Glove in adult patients with paralysis inthe hand and wrist due to brachial plexus. This research consisted of experimental studie, attendedby three patients. Three instruments were used: Unimanual Function Test, Bimanual Function Testand Satisfaction Questionnaire. The results showed that the patients managed control the openingand closing of the orthosis by means of myoelectric signals picked up by surface electrodes placedover the selected muscles, allowing manipulation of objects in unimanual and bimanual activities.The patients reported high index of satisfaction with the use of Functional Glove.