Static wrist splint: Its effect on hand function in three women with rheumatoid arthritis

The effect of a static wrist splint on strength (grip and pinch), applied strength (pouring water, lifting groceries), and applied dexterity (writing, manipulating coins) was examined using a single‐subject, alternating‐treatments design. A aseline phase was followed by an intervention phase in which splint and no‐splint conditions were alternated and counterbalanced. Three women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) entered the study. Data for each subject on each measure of hand function were plotted on graphs and analyzed visually for changes in level, trend, and variability. The results suggested that for women with RA a static wrist splint is useful in improving hand strength, but may hinder the wearer's ability to perform some fine motor tasks.