Photo Library

This photo library contains images of specific conditions treated and managed by the Merivale Hand Clinic. All the splints and supports shown in these images are either made onsite or are available from the Merivale Hand Clinic.

Mallet finger and a custom thermoplastic splint. The splint supports the terminal extensor tendon which has been seperated or 'avulsed' (with a bony chip) from its attachment. 

Control of swelling after hand trauma is vital for a good outcome.

Wrist splints come in a wide range of materials and designs to suit specific requirements eg for work, sport or night use. Splints protect injured structures allowing for rest and pain reduction. This permits the contiuation of normal daily activities. Your hand therapist will advise on the best option to suit your needs.

Amputations require specific cares to ensure a functional 'useable' stump including stump dressings and supports, desensitisation and massage.                                                                                         

Fractures in the wrist and hand can be managed in a number of different ways including surgical fixation, plaster or fibreglass casting, thermoplastic splints and buddy straps. Controllng swelling, restoring movement and improving function then become important. In stable fractures, early controlled movement is possible and often desirable to prevent complications.

Dupuytren's Contracture or 'The Vikings Curse' is a disease of the fascia in the hand. It can affect any of the digits or the thumb but most commonly is seen in the little and ring fingers. It results in thickened/nodular/bands of tissue that porgressivley limit the ability to flatten and span the affected hand. A Hand Surgeon is often consulted for an opinion on management. Post operatively hand therapists are involved in splinting to maintain the surgical correction, wound, scar and swelling management and exercises to restore range of motion.

Flexor tendon surgery requires specialist post operative splinting and rehabilitation. Tenolysis (surgery to free an adhered tendon) requires specific post operative attention to ensure the tendon regains normal movement. The image below shows a clients index finger seven days post flexor tendon tenolysis.