Introduction to Orthotic Fabrication for the Thumb 

This online course will provide instruction in the fabrication process for making a long thumb opponens orthosis, a precut wrist and thumb orthosis and a precut short thumb opponens orthosis.  These orthoses are also known as thumb spica orthoses, the long opponens orthosis includes the thumb and the wrist while the short opponens orthosis does not include the wrist. The short thumb orthosis is a very important orthosis that clinicians fabricate for many clients for a variety of diagnoses and conditions.  This orthosis supports the thumb in a functional position and is used for patients following injuries of the upper extremity that involve the thumb: thumb sprains and arthritis are key indicators for this orthosis.   The long opponens orthosis is also very important for any condition that involves structures of the wrist and the thumb such as arthritis, fractures, and/ or tendons that may involve both joints.

The structured demonstration will allow the viewer to appreciate the process of finding anatomical landmarks, pattern making, matching the pattern to the patient, cutting and molding the material and critiquing the completed orthoses. After viewing the video, it is recommended that the viewer take material and practice the techniques as outlined fabricating all steps of the short and long thumb opponens orthoses.  Orthotic fabrication involves many skills that requires hours of practice in cutting, molding and adapting thermoplastic material to match the patient’s anatomy. This course offers practical knowledge and information for the development of important orthotic fabrication skills, including precise instructions from multidirectional viewpoints.

●     Introduction: Orthotic Fabrication for the Thumb

o      Conditions and Diagnoses

o      Types of Orthoses

o      Material Characteristics

o      Wearing Schedules

●     The Long Thumb Opponens Orthosis

o      Pattern Making

o      Fabrication and Molding

o      Finishing Steps

●     The Short Thumb Opponens Orthosis

o      Pattern Making

o      Fabrication and Molding

o      Finishing Steps

●     The Precut Wrist and Thumb Opponens Orthosis

o      Fabrication and Molding

o      Finishing Steps

●     Tips for Increasing Patient Compliance and Conclusion

●     Post-Course Online Examination

Lecture, Video Demonstrations, Online Exam: 0.75

*Participants are responsible for ensuring their respective state/association’s CEU rules and guidelines. This course Category C for CHT’s as per guidelines provided by HTCC and Category 2 (Occupational Therapy Process) per the AOTA Classification Codes for CE.