The strength of the evidence for splinting and serial casting as treatment for elbow contractures: an integrative Critical Literature Review

• Author / Creator

  Whitford, Jacki

• Elbow contractures in burn survivors lead to difficulties in their ability to perform meaningful occupations. Interventions focus on improving movement at the elbow while considering social and psychological factors in the individual's environmental context. The purpose of the review was to determine the methodological quality of research evaluating splinting and serial casting to improve elbow contractures and resulting functional limitations. A comprehensive search strategy uncovered 10 research studies. Standardized critical appraisal tools and protocols were used to analyze the research. Although some methodological issues were identified, the findings were positive. Strengths and weaknesses of the research were delineated to support and guide the use of serial casting and splinting. A body of research was found to warrant consideration of social and psychological factors. Conclusion. There is preliminary quality of evidence to support the use of splinting and serial casting and important considerations for future research.

• Subjects / Keywords

  • Quality of life
  • Burns
  • Splinting
  • Outcome measures
  • Contracture
  • Range of motion
  • Serial casting

• Graduation date

  Spring 2011

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Master of Science

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/R37D7T

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.