Zone T2+ EPL (Thumb) Extensor Tendon Repair
Date issued: June 2024
Review date: June 2026
Ref: C-574/JT/Occupational Therapy/Zone T2+ EPL (Thumb)Extensor Tendon Repair
PDF: Zone T2+ EPL (Thumb) Extensor Tendon Repair.pdf[pdf] 114KB
Introduction
You have had the tendon(s) that straighten your thumb repaired. In the short term, this will need to be protected in a splint; it will take several months to become strong.
If you are concerned about your splint seek advice from your therapist
When to wear your splint
The purpose of your splint is:
- To prevent movement protecting the tendon repair
Please wear your splint:
- 24 hours a day
- Remove daily to wash hand/fingers but keep straight at all times and support on a table as directed by your therapist
- Wear in bath/shower as directed by your therapist
If you notice:
-
Red marks on your skin due to rubbing – try relieving with tissue/cotton wool
-
General irritation or a skin rash – remove more often to wash hand/fingers
-
You experience severe pain, swelling, stiffness or numbness of the hand/ limb concerned when you wear the splint – try elevating hand
Your splint should not be removed unless instructed to do so by your therapist, that includes showering / bathing.
Keep the splint away from anything hot (hot water / fire / radiator) as it will become soft and lose its shape.
Remember:
- Keep your hand elevated to reduce the swelling.
- Keep your uninjured joints moving to prevent stiffness.
- If your splint is rubbing or is uncomfortable, please contact us.
- Do not use your hand unless advised to do so by your therapist.
Exercise:
When directed by your therapist you will need to do regular exercises to prevent your thumb becoming stiff and to allow the tendon to glide when it is strong enough to do so.
The specific type of tendon injury that you have had will dictate the timescales for commencing exercises.
If there is a sudden change in your movement, or the splint is causing you discomfort or is damaged, please contact your therapist.
If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact us.
