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Abstract
The development of hand splinting within the practice of occupational therapy, rationale for appropriate splinting and recent trends in splint selection are reviewed. The therapist treating hand involved patients are employed in a variety of settings today: hospital base, freestanding clinics, physician offices, private practices or within the design of HMOs (Health Maintenance Organization). Having a sound background in kinesiology, upper extremity anatomy and bio-mechanic principles of the hand to assess the patients' physical function enhances the therapist's ability to make prudent splinting choices. Utilizing her knowledge of splint design the therapist may select either a prefabricated splint or a custom-made one to meet individual patient needs. This article does not attempt to review the hand splinting products available today but rather cites examples which may prompt the reader to further explore the literature.