JOINT PROTECTION TECHNIQUES.pptx

Joint Protection Techniques in Occupational Therapy

1. Joint Protection Techniques Shamima Akter B.Sc ( Hons ) in Occupational Therapy & Masters in Rehabilitation Science (enrolling) Assistant Professor Department of occupational therapy Bangladesh health professions institute (BHPI)

2. Principle Examples Respect pain If pain persists more than 2 hours after performing an activity, modify the activity by spending less time on it, using adaptive equipment, or resting during activity 2. Maintain muscle strength and joint ROM Balanced strength around unstable joints can reduce further injury to the capsule, ligaments and cartilage. On the other hand, ROM are critical for optimum functioning of muscles.

3. 3. Use each joint in its most stable anatomical and functional plane The most stable anatomical and/ or functional plane is one in which muscle, not ligament, provides resistance to the motion 4. Use proper body mechanics Lean forward to put weight over the feet, and use armrests on chairs to come to standing Use the palms of the hands on the armrests to push up to standing Push or pull objects rather than lifting. Avoid bending, reaching, and twisting.

4. 5. Avoid holding one position for a long time and prolonged repetitive motions Alternate sitting and standing during an activity, or shift around Relax and stretch the hands every 5 minutes when doing an activity that requires holding objects or tools such as holding cards, pencils, telephone, knitting or crochet needles, garden, kitchen, or hand tools Avoid kneeling to scrub the floor or to garden; instead, sit on a stool and use longer- handled tools

5. 6. Avoid positions and stress that cause deformity Avoid pressure along the lateral (thumb) side of fingers that encourage ulnar deviation such as turning keys, doorknobs, and screwdrivers Avoid pressure against the back of the fingers and wrist Avoid excessive and constant pressure against the pad of the thumb Avoid positions of ulnar deviation of the wrist, such as cutting with scissors/knives

6. 7. Use the larger & stronger muscles & joints Carry a briefcase or purse over one or both shoulders instead of holding it with the fingers Use the palm of the hands to lift pots and pans Lift object using leg muscles instead of back muscles 8. Balance rest and activity Exercise and activity are important for joint mobility and strength, but leisure and work should be balanced with period of rest

7. 9. Never begin activity that cannot be stopped immediately if needed Preplan and pace activities Try to slide, push, or pull objects rather than lifting 10. Reduce force Strong effort or resistive motions can be problematic for involved joints, can cause pain and destruction of soft tissue around the joint.