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Wilmer Stretching Orthosis

Support for stretching and contracture treatment in a paralyzed elbow

Maximum correction, maximum comfort

The Wilmer Stretching Orthosis, abbreviated WSO, is a lightweight arm orthosis (also called brace or splint) from the Wilmer line, developed at Delft University of Technology. The orthosis helps to stretch the arm through an adjustable spring mechanism.

Who is the Wilmer Stretching Orthosis for?

The WSO is designed for individuals who have difficulty stretching (extending) their elbow. Limited elbow extension can lead to reduced arm function, pain, and discomfort. If the arm remains in a bent position for an extended period, the muscles may shorten, further limiting mobility. This condition is known as a contracture.

Specifications
Symptoms
Support

Elbow function restored by adjustable spring mechanism.
- Spring can be doubled for extra strength.
Intended to support arm stretching (extension).
- Contracture treatment (eg due to spasms).
- To prevent contractures.
- In case of imbalance between bending muscles (biceps – too strong) and stretching musles (triceps brachii muscle – too weak) of the arm.

Comfort

Open structure for good ventilation.
Tilting self-adjusting pelottes for perfect transfer of pressure on the skin.
Can be worn under clothing
No Velcro straps required
Easy donning and doffing
Lightweight (< 140 g)

Customization

Custom-made and therefore perfect fit
Modern photo measurement technique

arm orthosis

Further specifications and performances of the Wilmer Stretching Orthosis

Standard Unit – With hand support
- Supports the affected arm, but leaves hand and fingers free.
Hand model
- Not only supports the forearm but also the hand and wrist by means of a hand support.
All units are available in one size in left and right models.
The orthosis is usually worn on the inside of the arm
Optionally carried on the outside of the arm.
- For example as a night splint to avoid contact between the orthosis and the torso.
- In that case a left version is carried on the right arm and vice versa.
The Wilmer Stretching Orthosis is suitable for forearms with a length between 18 en 25 cm.
- Measured from biceps in 90° till wrist.
Forearm circumference between 21 and 30 cm (thickest part of the forearm).
Wrist circumference between 18 and 23 cm.
Different sizes are available on request.
Is support needed in flexion? Then the Wilmer Stretching Orthosis is not suitable and the Wilmer Elbow Orthosis should be considered.

Not able to stretch the elbow?

Having trouble stretching the elbow, or not being able to stretch it at all can have many causes. For example an incorrect functioning triceps brachii muscle, the stretcher of the forearm. However, it is more likely that the arm can not be stretched properly due to an occuring spasm in the bending muscles (biceps) of the elbow, for example after a stroke (CVA)

An elbow contracture

If the arm can not be stretched for a long time (and thus remains in a bent position), a shortening of the bending muscle (biceps) often occurs. The more serious the shortening, the more difficult it is to stretch the arm. This type of shortening, that results in a joint no longer having its full range of motion, is called a contracture and generally requires treatment. Stretching the shortened structures again requires time.

Affecting wrist and hand

Spasms that lead to a contracture usually have a cause (eg stroke/CVA), which causes the complaints to not be restricted to the elbow. Therefore, the Stretching Orthisus is also available in an version that supports the wrist and hand.

Treatment of an elbow contracture

When treating a contracture due to shortened tendons or muscles, it is important that the structures are tensioned and held so that they can slowly retract slightly. Time is much more important than force. There is no point in pulling harder if you’re already at the limit. Certainly if wearing the orthosis that has to do this, becomes uncomfortable so that you can only wear it for short periods, then it even works counter-productive.

Working too hard, does not work

It is better to adjust the orthosis so that it is good and comfortable to wear, but brings the joint for a long time to the end position. We know that this slow, long lasting stretch gives the most lasting effect. That is why Ambroise also believes that the orthosis should be comfortable. Our custom made Stretching Orthosis is that for sure.
And in addition, in our eyes searching for the correct force is important. Therefore, the Stretching Orthosis is well adjustable over a wide range, so we can set it to ‘enough to correct by wearing it a long time’. A trained professional, like a certified orthotist, can help you in this process.

The Wilmer Stretching Orthosis as night splint

That “wearing a long time” can also be done at night, so that during sleep the orthosis can just do its job. Even though the orthosis also works well during the day, you may need the elbow more often during the day so that there is no correction at that moment. That’s why the Stretching Orthosis is definitely an option as a night splint. The orthosis is often carried on the outside of the arm. Then there is less material between the arm and the torso so that is more comfortable while sleeping. Wearing it outside makes the orthosis more visible, of coarse, but for a night splint that’s less of a concern.

Order codes Wilmer Stretching Orthosis for the professional

You can also find instruction videos on our YouTube channel. For example:

How do I get a Wilmer Stretching Orthosis?

The Wilmer Stretching Orthosis is custom made. For optimal operation and good comfort it is important that the orthosis fits well. The orthosis can only do its work properly if it is worn for a long time a day (or night). That’s why the orthosis is always measured and fitted by professionals (certified orthotist).

The Wilmer Stretching Orthosis is prescribed by your attending physician. In most cases, this will be the rehabilitation consultant or physiatrist. In many cases, approval must be sought from your insurer. All insurers in the Netherlands pay the Wilmer Stretching Orthosis provided there is a correct indication for it.

Do you want a non-binding advise from one of our clinical experts about the possibilities of a Wilmer Stretching Orthosis in your situation, or do you want to know which professionals in your area have experience with this orthosis? Feel free to contact us. We are happy to assist you.

Manual Wilmer Stretching Orthosis (WSO)

Or download the Wilmer Stretching Orthosis Manual here.

wilmer-stretching_orthosis

How does a Wilmer Stretching Orthosis work?

The Wilmer Stretching Orthosis contains a spring mechanism that helps to stretch your arm. The spring force of the stretching mechanism is adjustable over a wide range, so that the correct moment can be adjusted around the elbow.

The arm is slowly stretched further, due to the tension of the spring (the green rubber band at the upper arm part)

The Stretching Orthosis is also individually tailored. This makes this lightweight orthosis one of the most comfortable in its kind: just enough power, but not too much, in a well-fitted orthosis.

The orthoses of Ambroise are continuous in development

The orthoses of Ambroise are continuous in <strong>development</strong>

Wilmer Stretching Orthosis

Optional hand support If extra support of the hand is desired, a hand support can be provided.
Renewed pelottes The new pelottes are less prone to breakage, mounted more securely and cover off the pelotte carrier front better. And last but not least: they look better.
Hinge padding A nicely looking and perfectly tailored soft padding on the hinge prevents damage to clothes and furniture when you bump against the hinge.

Wilmer Stretching Orthosis with hand support, seen from the inside of the arm.

Versions of the Wilmer Stretching Orthosis

The Wilmer Stretching Orthosis is available in two versions. The standard model only supports the affected elbow and leaves the hand and fingers free. The hand model also supports the hand with the aid of a hand support. All models are available in a left or right version and are custom made and adjusted.

The Stretching Orthosis is usually carried on the medial side but can also be made in a lateral version as a night splint so that during sleeping the orthosis irritates the body as little as possible.

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