Can you tell us more about the orthosis you created for this challenge?

For this challenge, I designed a custom dynamic flexion orthosis for a patient presenting with stiffness of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint.

The orthosis applies a controlled and prolonged low-load stretch to promote progressive gains in PIP joint flexion. The design was carefully adapted to the patient's anatomy to ensure both effectiveness and comfort during wear.

My objective was to create a lightweight, comfortable, and aesthetically appealing orthosis that would encourage regular use while delivering the therapeutic forces required to improve joint mobility.

What was the goal or indication for this orthosis?

The indication for this orthosis was a limitation in PIP joint flexion resulting in reduced hand function.

The primary goal was to improve joint range of motion through prolonged controlled stretching while respecting tissue tolerance and patient comfort. By increasing PIP flexion, the orthosis aimed to restore functional grasp patterns and facilitate the patient's return to daily activities.

In hand rehabilitation, even small improvements in PIP flexion can significantly impact overall hand function, making these orthoses an important component of the rehabilitation process.

Why did you choose Orfit Colors NS for this orthosis?

I chose Orfit Colors NS because it combines excellent handling properties with a high-quality finish.

The material is easy to mold accurately, adapts well to anatomical contours, and offers enough rigidity for effective support while remaining comfortable for the patient.

In addition, the color options allow us to create orthoses that patients perceive as more personal and attractive.

In your experience, how do colors impact patient engagement or compliance?

Colors can have a surprisingly significant impact.

When patients are involved in choosing the color of their orthosis, they often feel more connected to the device. This sense of ownership can improve adherence and encourage them to wear the splint as prescribed.

For children, colors can transform an orthosis from a medical device into something fun and positive. For adults, it can make the orthosis feel more personal and less clinical.

What do you appreciate most about working with Orfit Colors NS in daily practice?

What I appreciate most is the balance between workability and reliability.

The material allows me to achieve precise results efficiently while maintaining a professional finish that patients appreciate.

It is predictable, versatile, and suitable for a wide variety of orthotic applications.

Is there a specific feature (handling, finish, comfort…) that makes a difference for you?

One feature that stands out is the finishing quality.

The edges can be refined very smoothly, resulting in a comfortable orthosis with an aesthetic appearance. This contributes both to patient comfort and to the overall quality of the final device.

I also appreciate the material's conformability, which helps achieve intimate contact with the anatomy.

How did the patient respond to this splint?

The patient responded very positively to the orthosis. He found it comfortable to wear and appreciated its appearance, which contributed to excellent compliance throughout the rehabilitation process.

Most importantly, we observed a rapid improvement in PIP joint flexion range of motion during the treatment period. The combination of consistent orthosis use and hand therapy exercises allowed the patient to progressively regain mobility and improve overall hand function.

What inspires you in your splinting work?

What inspires me most is the combination of science, craftsmanship, and creativity.

Splinting is a unique field where biomechanics, clinical reasoning, and manual skills come together. Every patient presents a different challenge, and designing a personalized solution is both rewarding and motivating.

Do you have a tip for other therapists working with Orfit Colors NS?

My advice would be to take full advantage of the material's versatility and to pay as much attention to patient acceptance as to biomechanics.

As therapists, we often focus on force application, joint positioning, and treatment protocols, which are obviously essential. However, even the most biomechanically effective orthosis will only work if the patient wears it consistently. Comfort, aesthetics, and patient involvement should never be underestimated.

Orfit Colors NS offers an excellent opportunity to involve patients in the fabrication process. Allowing them to choose a color can create a stronger sense of ownership and improve compliance, especially when the orthosis needs to be worn for extended periods.

From a technical perspective, I would also recommend taking advantage of the material's excellent conformability to achieve intimate anatomical contact and precise force application. Small details such as smooth edges, careful finishing, and a comfortable fit can make a significant difference in daily wear and overall treatment success.

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