Model in Orthesis in Elbow for Rehabilitation in Rigidity Articulate

Abstract

Introduction: Joint stiffness is the most common complication in elbow injuries and may have several etiologies and pathophysiological mechanisms, affecting treatment and prognosis. The measures for prevention and treatment of joint contracture are based on the cause of stiffness, and early intervention should modify the course of this complication, bringing better results; Such methods may be conservative or surgical, isolated or combined, depending on each individual situation. Objective: To develop a device for use by patients in rehabilitation of elbow injuries. Method: The development of the device was approached through "Design Thinking", divided into four phases: "Discover", "Define", "Develop" and "Deliver". In the “Discover” phase, interviews were conducted with patients with elbow joint stiffness and professionals about the problem. Literature review and search for anteriority data collection was performed. In the “Define” stage, the anomaly to be included in the study was determined. In the stage “Develop”, search was held for ideas and prototypes and models. “Brainstorming” meetings on the topic were scheduled. In the “Deliver” stage, adjustments and refinements and prototype production were performed, as well as testing for improvements and corrections to the project. Results: In the "Discover" phase, collected questionnaire responses from patients. In the "Define" phase, it was established that joint stiffness was the complaint to be treated. In the “Develop” phase, answers were collected from the questionnaires of the professional groups and “brainstorming” was performed among these collaborators. In the "Deliver" phase, creation of the virtual orthotic model ready for three-dimensional printing. Conclusion: A device was developed for individualized use and management, molded to each patient, to be used in the rehabilitation of elbow joint injuries.