148 chapter 16
Homemade aids for stretching joints
Because daily movement of joints is so important with arthritis, casts should be
avoided whenever possible. So try to figure out other ways to correct contractures. Use
whatever materials you can find, such as plastic, bamboo, and inner tubes.
These are a few of the examples of aids invented
in a Mexican village for a girl with arthritis.
KNEE
CAUTION: Make sure that
the aids pull in a way that
does not cause dislocations.
METHOD 1:
plastic from
an old bucket,
bent or heat-
molded to fit
METHOD 2:
wood, plastic, or metal
(take care that it does
not press on the knee)
rivets
thick plastic,
bamboo, or some
other springy material
A pad behind
the knee helps
prevent the leg
from dislocating
backward,
WRIST
Over-the-hand support
bamboo, thick
plastic, or
metal
plastic or
leather
The strongest pull
should be near the
knee to prevent
dislocation.
rubber
(inner
tube)
The pull
can be
adjusted.
Note: The behind-the-knee aid usually works
the best. It is steadier and so causes less muscle
tightening. Because it holds the leg more firmly, it
is less likely to cause dislocations. It is also more
comfortable and less awkward.
plastic from
an old bucket
strip of
inner tube
leather or cloth
Under-the-hand support
The plastic
should bend up
into the palm
of the hand.
heat-molded plastic (or
metal from an old can)
bamboo or other
springy material
PRECAUTIONS in the use of aids for
stretching contractures:
• They should be made in a way that will prevent
dislocations. When using, check often for early
signs of dislocation.
• The aids should not pull so much that they cause
pain and defensive muscle tightening.
• Use them during most of the day and at night (about
20 of every 24 hours).
• Remove them 2 or 3 times a day in order to do
exercises.
• Also do exercises without motion with the aids in
place.
• Take care that the aid does not stop blood flow or
press on nerves. If the hand or foot becomes cool,
changes color, begins to hurt or becomes numb–
remove the aid, and make the needed adjustments.
For other aids and devices for straightening contractures, see Chapter 59.
Disabled village Children