Hand Care for Patients Affected by Spasticity

Caring for patients affected by spasticity requires specialized tools and techniques, particularly when managing hand contractures.AliMed® Therapy Carrot™ Hand Contracture Orthoses offer effective solutions for maintaining hand hygiene and comfort. This article explores the benefits and usage of the carrot hand contracture orthosis, designed to alleviate the challenges associated with spasticity.

Understanding Spasticity and Its Impact on Hand Function

Spasticity results from neurological disruptions affecting muscle control, leading to continuous muscle contractions. This condition is prevalent among individuals with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders. Spasticity often manifests in the extremities, causing muscle stiffness and joint tightness that complicate everyday tasks, including hand care. Proper hand care is crucial to minimize the risk of pressure and skin damage.  

Therapy Carrot Hand Contracture Orthoses 

The Therapy Carrot Hand Contracture Orthosis is specifically designed to address the challenges of spasticity. Its purpose is to position the fingers away from the palm, thereby reducing the risk of nail puncture injuries and protecting the skin from excessive moisture. The carrot shape facilitates painless positioning and graduated markings on the cover accurately measure and document your patient’s progress. Additionally, the orthosis provides a maximum circumference to accommodate various hand sizes, offering a comfortable fit for severely contracted fingers.  

This unique device also aids caregivers in maintaining the hygiene and health of contracted hands, positioning the fingers in a way that minimizes pressure and the risk of skin damage. By keeping the hand cool and dry, it prevents excessive moisture pressure that can lead to skin breakdown.  

AliMed offers several types of Therapy Carrot to meet different patient needs. The Original Carrot treats moderate-to-severe contractures while the Antimicrobial-Treated Carrot helps reduce odor-causing bacteria. For the most severely contracted hands, choose the Inflatable Carrot. 

Key Features of the Therapy Carrot Hand Contracture Orthosis  

1. Positions the Fingers: The orthosis gently positions the fingers away from the palm, reducing the risk of pressure sores and enhancing comfort.  
2. Promotes Circulation: Acting as a therapeutic aid, it supports ongoing treatment efforts by maintaining proper hand alignment and promoting better blood circulation.  
3. Protects Skin from Excessive Moisture: The orthosis helps protect the skin by minimizing exposure to excessive moisture, a common issue in contracted hands.  
4. Offers Comfort and Easy Maintenance: Constructed with a cover packed with washable absorbent wool fleece, the orthosis is easy to clean and maintain. This design ensures durability and comfort for long-term use.   

Can Hand Contracture be Reversed?  

While complete reversal of hand contracture may not always be possible, the Therapy Carrot plays a significant role in managing symptoms and improving hand function. Through consistent use, it helps reduce muscle tightness and discomfort, paving the way for more effective physical and occupational therapy interventions.  

The Therapy Carrot Hand Contracture Orthosis stands out as an essential tool for managing hand contractures associated with spasticity. By positioning the fingers away from the palm and protecting the skin, it addresses key challenges faced by caregivers and patients alike. With its thoughtful design and practical benefits, this orthotic device enhances the quality of care and supports better hand health for those affected by spasticity.