Ulnar deviation, also known as ulnar drift, describes a condition where the wrist or fingers shift in the direction of the Ulna, the bone on the little finger side of the forearm. The primary cause is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). RA causes inflammation at the MP joints (the large knuckles) along with displacement and possibly rupture of the tendons that cross these joints. The carpal (wrist) bones will start to deviate or shift towards the thumb side of the hand while the fingers deviate towards the little finger or ulnar side.
Symptoms
Ulnar deviation generally occurs over time and is related to the severity of your RA. Persons with enlarged MP joints with synovitis (inflammation of the tissues and fluid surrounding the joints) will note a “spongy” feel to the joints. The initial symptoms of deviation may be difficulty to fully straighten your fingers at the MP joints and a slight “windswept” look to the fingers. Grip and pinch strength are diminished and hand function becomes more difficult over time.
How a 3-Point Splint Can Help
While there is no direct research that shows that wearing hand splints or practicing joint protection techniques will prevent or correct deformity, splinting has been shown to improve hand strength and function. The Polycentric Ulnar Deviation Splint was designed specifically as a day-time splint for those with ulnar deviation at the MP joints. The splint maintains the fingers in straight alignment while still allowing for full motion at each joint.
For additional support if the Polycentric Hinged Ulnar Deviation Splint is no longer enough for daytime wear, 3pp has the Radial Hinged Ulnar Deviation Splint available.
Its counter part is the Comforter splint. Resting the wrist and fingers at night in a Comforter Splint can lessen the effects of morning stiffness and swelling. Oval-8 Finger Splints provide stability to weakened joints and lessen stress on the joints.
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