Effect of a special splint on finger motion recovery

Pilot Study on The Effectiveness of Relative Motion Orthosis in Finger Motion

Not applicable Interventional NYU Langone Health · NCT06646029

This study is testing if a special splint can help people aged 18 to 80 with stiff fingers from injuries move their fingers better compared to just regular care.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment64 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorNYU Langone Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT06646029 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to assess the effectiveness of a Relative Motion Orthosis (RMO) in improving finger range of motion in patients with stiffness in the Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) joint due to injury. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either standard care or standard care plus the RMO. The primary goal is to evaluate the improvement in finger motion using clinical assessments and physical examinations. The study focuses on individuals aged 18 to 80 with specific PIP injuries that limit their finger extension.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-80 with PIP injuries causing reduced active range of motion in extension.

Not a fit: Patients with severe arthropathy or those requiring serial casting for their PIP joint stiffness may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance recovery of finger motion for patients suffering from PIP joint stiffness.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is novel, similar studies have shown promise in improving joint motion with specialized orthotic devices.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age range 18-80
* Any gender
* Any Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) injury that causes reduced PIP Active Range of Motion (AROM) in extension
* Right or left hand injury
* Level of Chronicity (4 weeks - 6 months)
* Able to follow instructions

Exclusion Criteria:

* PIP with hard end feel (feels they need serial casting) - level of chronicity
* Any digital nerve injury / skin laceration that can prevent the patient from using the orthosis
* Severe arthropathy
* Literacy deficits: patients need to be able to follow verbal and written instructions independently to minimize risks and improve outcomes from care.

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Stiffness
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.