Wrist Hand Orthoses Custom and Custom Fit

Wrist hand orthoses (WHO'S) are beneficial for treatment of many medical conditions and injuries.

These conditions can be (but not are limited to):

Fracture
Dislocation
Ligament Laxity
Post-operative
Osteoarthritis
Radial and or Ulnar Fracture
Tendonitis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA)/Stroke

Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Wrist and Hand	The radius and ulna articulate with the carpal bones to form the wrist joint. The hand is made up of groups of bones including the carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges. There are many muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves in wrist and hand.
Goals of Wrist Hand Orthosis Treatment	Provide wrist and hand stability Allow for needed wrist and hand mobility Control biomechanical alignment of the wrist and hand Redistribute pressures on the wrist and hand Resist external forces on the wrist and hand Limit excessive movements in the wrist and hand Protect the wrist and hand
Design of Wrist Hand Orthosis	A Certified Orthotist will assess the wrist and hand and take a 3-D cast/mould of the wrist and hand if needed. This can be performed with the patient in a prone position or in a seated position. The Certified Orthotist will ensure the wrist and hand are in a corrected position. There are a variety of wrist and hand brace designs. The Certified Orthotist will determine which design is best for treatment based on individual needs and goals. Wrist hand braces may have metal joints. All wrist hand braces have straps to help ensure correct application of the orthosis. Types of Wrist Hand Braces: Ligament stability ROM Post-operative Hyperextension Resting Gauntlet Post up Scaphoid Hypermobility Palm protector Finger spreader
Wrist Hand Orthosis Application	Wrist hand orthoses work best when applied directly against the skin. There are specific donning (application) instructions that the Certified Orthotist will explain to the patient. The Orthotist will also provide a wear schedule accompanied by cleaning and care recommendations.
Living with a Wrist Hand Orthosis (follow up)	The corrections provided by the wrist hand orthosis may take some time to get used to. The wrist hand orthosis should not be painful; however, it is not uncommon to feel some initial discomfort. The break-in period should not last more than two weeks. If you experience rubbing or blisters, please book an appointment with your Certified Orthotist for immediate attention. If you are experiencing pain after two weeks please book a follow up appointment with your Certified Orthotist. It is always recommended to book a follow up appointment with your Certified Orthotist if you experience any changes in condition (pain, change in size, growth). The Certified Orthotist can determine what changes need to be made or make recommendations for alternative treatment. Wrist hand braces can often be modified or refurbished. The Certified Orthotist can reassess to determine the course of treatment with you.
Funding for Wrist Hand Orthoses	Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) does provide funding for custom wrist hand orthoses for Alberta Residents with valid Alberta Healthcare. AADL will pay 100% for the cost for Alberta Residents over the age of 65. AADL will pay 75% of the cost for Alberta Residents under the age of 65. A prescription from a physician is required. There is coverage for persons with low income. AADL may provide coverage for some off the shelf wrist hand braces. WCB may provide coverage with a copy of a prescription from a physician. NIHB may provide coverage with a copy of a prescription from a physician. Private insurance may pay for a portion of the cost of your wrist hand orthosis. It is important to consult your insurance company to determine the coverage that they provide. Many insurance companies require a physician's prescription for wrist hand orthosis benefits. The insurance company may require an estimate letter from your Certified Orthotist. There may be an added cost for this letter.