Which splint is recommended for a C5 spinal cord injury?

For individuals with a C5 spinal cord injury, the recommended splint is a dorsal wrist splint with a universal cuff. This type of splint is particularly beneficial because it provides support to the wrist while allowing for improved hand function.

The universal cuff attachment enables individuals to grasp and hold objects, which is crucial because individuals with a C5 injury have some shoulder and elbow function but limited hand dexterity. By using this splint, they can engage in activities that require grasping, allowing for greater independence in daily tasks and promoting their ability to participate in occupational therapy.

While other splints serve functional purposes, they do not specifically address the unique motor and functional needs of a C5 spinal cord injury as effectively as the dorsal wrist splint with universal cuff. For instance, a wrist cock-up splint primarily immobilizes the wrist, which may not be suitable for those requiring active engagement of the hand with assistive devices. Similarly, a tenodesis splint is designed for individuals with specific grasping capabilities, typically seen in lower-level injuries, while a resting hand splint is more oriented towards maintaining hand position without functional engagement. The chosen splint not only aids in function but also aligns with the rehabilitative goals of individuals with this level