PANat Urias Johnstone User Manual page 27

Application of the air splint
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The air splint is applied over the hand and wrist.
The thumb is held in an outward position
(abduction) and the
(extension).
The seam must lie alongside the 5th finger.
3
Then put a small amount of air into the lower
chamber.
Some adjustment may be needed to balance the
chambers to ensure the correct hand position.
Sample exercises
Use these to develop your own exercise programmes.
 Usually used in conjunction with the elbow splint.
 Can be used on the toes and forefoot to mobilise soft tissues and to encourage extension of the toes
during functional activities.
Removal of the air splint
 Inform the client that the air splint is to be removed.
 Deflate the air splint.
 If active movement is present encourage the client to move his hand.
 Passively mobilise all joints (see preparation for application).
 Use various objects to stimulate sensation and selective movements of the hand.
Precautions
 Never over extend the metacarpal or interphalangeal joints (knuckles and fingers) as this may cause a
flat non functional hand.
 Never pull the air splint off - always let the air out first.
 Do not leave the air splint on for more than 30-45 minutes. Within the course of a treatment session
they may be removed and reapplied if they are being used dynamically rather than as a tool to stretch
soft tissues.
To mobilise tight muscle groups apply the air splint 2-3 times daily for 20 minutes.
 Never use the air splints for positioning overnight.
© Rights reserved PANat 2009, revised 02/2015, version 2017
fingers are straight
2
Firmly inflate the chamber covering the back of
the hand.
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