COF Upper Extremity Orthotics 3

Question 1

A 'lumbrical bar' orthosis is PRIMARILY used to correct which deformity in a patient with ulnar nerve palsy?

Accepted Answer

Claw deformity of the ring and small fingers

Answer

A lumbrical bar blocks MCP hyperextension, correcting the claw deformity of the ring and small fingers caused by intrinsic muscle paralysis from ulnar nerve palsy.

Question 2

Which thermoplastic material property is MOST important when fabricating a rigid protective shell for an athlete with a metacarpal fracture returning to play?

Accepted Answer

High rigidity and impact resistance

Answer

Rigid impact-resistant thermoplastic provides the protective shell needed to shield a healing metacarpal fracture during contact sport activity.

Question 3

The purpose of a figure-of-eight clavicle brace is to:

Accepted Answer

Retract the shoulders and maintain alignment of a clavicle fracture

Answer

A figure-of-eight brace holds the shoulders in retraction and slight elevation, maintaining alignment of a mid-shaft clavicle fracture during healing.

Question 4

For a patient with a mallet finger injury (Zone I extensor tendon rupture), the DIP joint should be immobilized in which position?

Accepted Answer

Neutral (0°) to slight hyperextension

Answer

The DIP joint is immobilized in neutral to slight hyperextension (0–5°) to approximate the ruptured extensor tendon ends and allow healing without tension.

Question 5

A dynamic MCP flexion orthosis using rubber band traction is indicated for which clinical condition?

Accepted Answer

MCP extension contracture limiting grip

Answer

Dynamic MCP flexion orthoses apply low-load prolonged stress to remodel contracted tissue and restore MCP flexion lost due to extension contracture.

(COF) Certified Orthotic Fitter Practice Test

(COF) Certified Orthotic Fitter Practice Test

COF Upper Extremity Orthotics 3