Dual Axis Finger Splint for Boutonniere Deformity Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current finger splints for boutonniere deformities either immobilize the finger completely, leading to undesirable tendon contraction and hindered rehabilitation, or restrict motion to a single axis, preventing full flexion and lacking corrective measures for the condition.
Innovation Solution
A dual axis flexible finger splint with a deformity correction device that allows rotation of both PIP and DIP joints, featuring a frame with rotatably connected phalanx supports and an adjustable pressure device to apply uniform force to the deformed joint, enabling full finger motion and tendon exercise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the finger is completely immobilized with a splint, then the deformity is stabilized, but tendon contraction occurs and rehabilitation is inhibited
Solution Approach 1:
The splint transitions from a static immobilizing device to a dynamic device that permits controlled motion. The PIP joint is allowed to flex and extend within a controlled range while the deformity remains stabilized, preventing tendon contraction while maintaining correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The splint is divided into separate functional zones: one section stabilizes the deformity at the PIP joint while another section allows independent motion of the PIP joint. This segmentation enables simultaneous stabilization and motion permission.
2Ease of operation
If motion is permitted with a single-axis splint, then tendon exercise is enabled, but full finger flexion is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The splint incorporates dual-axis hinges that allow motion in two perpendicular directions, enabling the PIP joint to flex fully while the DIP joint moves independently. This adds a second degree of freedom to the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The splint uses dynamic hinges that allow controlled motion in multiple directions, transforming the rigid single-axis constraint into a flexible multi-axis system that adapts to natural finger movement patterns.
3Ease of operation
If motion-permitting splints are used, then rehabilitation is enabled, but corrective force for the deformity is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The splint merges two functions into one device: it simultaneously permits joint motion through flexible hinges and applies corrective force through an integrated spring mechanism. Both functions work together in a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is pre-loaded to provide continuous corrective force on the deformity before the patient performs any exercises. This preliminary corrective action occurs passively while the patient actively moves the joint.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates accelerated rehabilitation by allowing full joint motion and applying corrective external force, exercising tendons while addressing the deformity.
Implementation Method 1
a loosely attached foam pad or balloon attached to the bottom of the finger plate so that the foam pad or balloon conforms to the shape of the patient's finger and applies uniform force
Implementation Method 2
The proximal and distal phalanx supports are each rotatably connected to the frame, allowing the patient to extend and contract the finger, rotating both the PIP and DIP joints
Data Source
AI summary
A Finger Splint for treating boutonniere deformities is provided. The Finger Splint has a dual axis support mechanism that allows full flexure and extension of the finger while pressure is applied to correct the deformity.