Correction of ulnar bowing in radial club hand using an original splint

Abstract

Severe radial club hand shows not only defects of the thumb and radius but also bowing of the ulna. It is challenging for people with this congenital condition to acquire good function and appearance. Here, we present a three-month-old boy with radial club hand who was treated with an original splint to correct both radial deviation of the wrist and bowing of the ulna. We performed occupational therapy, such as grasping with the affected hand and activities involving both hands, with the splint off according to his developmental stage. As a result, range of motion of the wrist and bowing of the ulna improved along with his growth. Furthermore, motor age tests showed an equivalent development with the contralateral normal side except for activity involving the thumb. In conclusion, our original splint was useful for correction of radial club hand.