Static Versus Dynamic Splints for Wrist Spasticity in Stroke Patients

University of Lahore20 enrolled

Overview

The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether different types of wrist-hand splints can reduce wrist flexor spasticity in subacute hemiplegic stroke patients. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does a dynamic wrist-hand splint reduce wrist spasticity more effectively than a static splint? * Does one type of splint lead to better functional outcome during use? Researchers will compare participants who receive a static splint with those who receive a dynamic splint to see which splint provides greater improvement in wrist spasticity. Participants will: * Wear either a static or dynamic wrist-hand splint according to the assigned study group. * Undergo wrist spasticity assessments before and after the intervention using a standardized clinical scale.

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

NONE

Enrollment

Conditions

Stroke Spasticity Hemiplegia Post Stroke Recovery

Interventions

Static Wrist-Hand SplintDEVICE

Intervention 1: The static wrist-hand splint is a rigid device that holds the wrist and fingers in a fixed position. It is custom-fitted to each participant and worn according to a defined rehabilitation protocol, typically for several hours per day. The static splint provides continuous support to prevent wrist flexor contractures and reduce spasticity. The primary focus is on maintaining proper joint alignment and minimizing muscle hypertonicity.

Dynamic Wrist-Hand SplintDEVICE

Intervention 2: The dynamic wrist-hand splint is a device designed to allow controlled, graded wrist and finger extension while limiting excessive flexion. It is custom-fitted to each participant and worn according to a rehabilitation protocol, typically for several hours per day. It permits movement within a safe range while applying gentle extension forces to reduce wrist flexor spasticity. This intervention aims to actively modulate muscle tone while maintaining functional mobility.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 30 YearsMax age: 65 Years

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 30-65 years * Diagnosis of subacute stroke (e.g., 1-6 months post-stroke) * Presence of wrist flexor spasticity * Ability to follow simple instructions Exclusion Criteria: * Fixed wrist contracture * Severe pain limiting splint use * Other neurological or musculoskeletal disorders affecting the upper limb

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Wrist Flexor Spasticity

Wrist flexor spasticity will be assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Assessments will be performed at baseline before the intervention and after completion of the intervention period. The primary outcome is the change in MAS score, comparing participants using static versus dynamic wrist-hand splints.

Time frame: Baseline to post-intervention (4 weeks)