PANat Urias Johnstone User Manual page 32

Application of the air splint
1
Apply this air splint over the fingers.
The thumb is held in an outward position
(abduction) and the
(extension).
TIP!
To stop the fingers sliding out of the air splint and to minimise movement of the fingers within it, insert a small
piece of non slip material under the fingers prior to inflation.
Sample exercises
Use these to develop your own exercise programmes.
Use various objects to stimulate
sensation and the intrinsic muscles
of the open hand and finger tips.
Pulling plasticine
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 their 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
it may be removed and reapplied if it is 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
Holding cards.
2
Hold the thumb in abduction whilst inflating the
air splint to ensure a functional position of the
hand.
Sensory training of the open hand
with different materials and textures.
32