RCL UCL repair reconstruction digital MCP joint therapy

The patient is advised that following ligament surgery, there is a prolonged recovery phase before joint motion is regained, and that most patients have some permanent loss in range of motion which is usually not functionally important.

3 weeks:

The postoperative dressing is removed.

A Safe Position Splint with medial or lateral stops on the opposite site of the repaired ligament is constructed to be worn between exercises and at night.

Active Range of Motion exercises are initiated for 15 min/hr. using buddy tapes around the proximal phalanx of the injured digit and an adjacent digit.

6 weeks:

Passive Range of Motion exercises are initiated.

The splint is continued for protection and comfort.

8 weeks:

The splint is discontinued.

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