CHT CHT Splinting & Orthotic Fabrication

Question 1

A resting hand orthosis for a patient with rheumatoid arthritis should position the wrist at:

Accepted Answer

0–15° extension

Answer

A resting orthosis for rheumatoid arthritis positions the wrist at 0–15° extension, MCPs in slight flexion (~15–20°), and IPs near full extension to rest inflamed joints in a functional, non-deforming position.

Question 2

The safe position (intrinsic-plus position) for immobilizing a hand to prevent contracture is:

Accepted Answer

Wrist extended, MCPs flexed 70–90°, IPs extended

Answer

The safe (intrinsic-plus) position places the wrist in extension, MCPs in 70–90° flexion, and IPs in full extension to maintain ligament length and prevent contracture.

Question 3

A dynamic extension splint with outrigger is most commonly used for which condition?

Accepted Answer

Boutonniere deformity

Answer

Dynamic PIP extension orthoses are a primary conservative treatment for boutonniere deformity, applying a constant low-load stretch to the PIP joint into extension.

Question 4

When fabricating a thermoplastic orthosis, the recommended water temperature to soften most low-temperature thermoplastic materials (LTT) is:

Accepted Answer

50–55°C (122–131°F)

Answer

Most low-temperature thermoplastics become pliable at 60–70°C; however, many clinical guidelines cite heating the water to around 60°C with material softening at approximately 60–65°C for safe skin application.

Question 5

A figure-of-eight orthosis is primarily used to treat which digit deformity?

Accepted Answer

Swan neck deformity

Answer

The figure-of-eight (or ring) orthosis blocks PIP hyperextension while allowing full PIP flexion, directly addressing the PIP hyperextension component of swan neck deformity.

(CHT) Certified Hand Therapist Practice Test

(CHT) Certified Hand Therapist Practice Test

CHT CHT Splinting & Orthotic Fabrication