Static Progressive Orthoses An Evidence-Based Intervention?

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to increase understanding of the current levels of evidence supporting the use of static progressive orthoses, and to provide clarity on appropriate diagnoses, outcome measures, and duration of use for this intervention. Rationale: Static progressive orthoses are an intervention commonly provided for clients with stiffness and/or limited range of motion (ROM) of upper extremity joints, due to trauma or injury. This type of orthosis incorporates nonelastic components to apply force to the stiff joint or tissue, holding it at end-range position to improve passive motion. There are only a limited number of studies on the use of static progressive orthoses for the upper extremity with a small number of clients enrolled. Design: A literature search of the current evidence supporting static progressive orthoses for treatment of stiff upper extremity joints was performed to identify information regarding common diagnoses of clients treated with this type of orthotic inter...