Occupational therapy upper limb splinting practice for clients with acquired brain injuries: A cross-sectional study from South Africa

Abstract

Introduction: Acquired brain injuries (ABIs) form part of the caseload of occupational therapists treating adult clients with neurological conditions. One adjunct to treatment of the upper limb condition following ABI is splinting. Little is known about the occupational therapy splinting practices in this field. This study aimed to describe these practices within a South African context. Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was utilised. A convenience sample of occupational therapists from across South Africa completed a survey. The survey comprised of demographic factors; types of splints used; wear schedule regimens during the motor recovery phases and influencing factors. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Results: Fifty-two participants ( n = 115) completed the survey, representing a 45.2% response rate. Participants (52.9% ( n = 27) indicated that splints are provided to 25% of clients with ABI. Splints are used to maintain soft tissue length and to ensure correct biomechanical alignment. Conclusions: Splinting for clients with ABI in South Africa is used as a preventative and maintenance approach. Failing more high-level evidence to support the use of splints for clients with ABI, therapists should consider the client-, therapist- and environment-related factors when determining the suitability and appropriateness of splinting clients with ABI.