Purpose: The purpose of this research is to increase understanding of the current levels of evidence supporting the use of static progressive orthoses, and to provide clarity on appropriate diagnoses, outcome measures, and duration of use for this intervention. Rationale: Static progressive orthoses are an intervention commonly provided for clients with stiffness and/or limited range of motion (ROM) of upper extremity joints, due to trauma or injury. This type of orthosis incorporates nonelastic components to apply force to the stiff joint or tissue, holding it at end-range position to improve passive motion. There are only a limited number of studies on the use of static progressive orthoses for the upper extremity with a small number of clients enrolled. Design: A literature search of the current evidence supporting static progressive orthoses for treatment of stiff upper extremity joints was performed to identify information regarding common diagnoses of clients treated with this type of orthotic intervention, outcomes achieved, wearing schedules, and duration of orthotic use. Participants: This research examined the current levels of evidence supporting the use of static progressive orthoses for clients with limitations in ROM of the upper extremity following surgery or trauma (orthopedic pathologies). Analytic Methods: The current evidence supporting the use of static progressive orthoses is found in 11 studies on the elbow, 2 studies on the forearm, 3 studies on the wrist, 2 studies on stiff fingers, and 2 systematic reviews. The data provided in these 20 studies on client diagnoses, type of orthotic design, outcome measures, and duration of use are analyzed and described. Conclusions: Clients benefit from the use of static progressive orthoses by demonstrating increased ROM, increased function and grip strength, and decreased pain. The current evidence includes 20 studies that present information on appropriate client diagnoses, outcome measures, protocols of use, and average duration of wear.
