Low-load, prolonged stretch in treatment of elbow flexion contractures secondary to head trauma: a case report

Abstract

Joint contractures are a frequent complication of head trauma and often require extensive physical therapy intervention. Traditional methods of treatment, including passive stretching and range-of-motion exercises, have proven to be of limited benefit in contracture reduction. Low-load, prolonged stretch has been shown to be more effective than traditional methods of treatment in producing the desired elongation of connective tissue. A splinting device known as the Dynasplint is designed to provide this type of stretch. The purpose of this case report is to describe the application of the Dynasplint in the successful treatment of a patient with elbow flexion contracture secondary to head trauma.