HAND HELPER^® GLOSSARY

Range of Motion  (ROM)
 The amount of free movement available to any particular joint as it travels from a normal bent to fully extended position. For one’s hand, the range of motion for the fingers can be expressed in terms of a range of travel of the joints starting with a balled fist through a full extension of the fingers. ROM is informally measured in terms of full, limited, or minimal based upon the extent of travel.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful disorder caused by pressure on the median nerve at the wrist as it passes through the Carpal Tunnel. Symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain or weakness in the hand or wrist are common. Certain occupational activities which involve repeated flexing of the fingers or wrist, or prolonged use of vibrating tools may cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)
Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI) are those injuries common to cumulative trauma disorders (CTD). RSI is a collective term relative to a group of injuries that cause impairment due to repeatedly doing a specific activity. The injuries accumulate over time to the point that performing daily tasks is extremely difficult. Symptoms include pain, loss of strength, impaired motor skills in hand, and weakness. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common RSI.

Flexor Tendon Injuries / Flexor Muscles
A flexor tendon injury is one that directly affects the ability of the flexor muscles attached to the bones in the hand by tendons to easily bend the fingers and the thumb. If these tendons are cut or damaged, they typically cannot heal by themselves and will require surgery. Someone who has had flexor tendon surgery will likely experience decreased range of motion and limited hand strength that will require rehabilitation under the supervision of a qualified health professional.

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Tendon Gliding
The tendon is a flexible band that connects muscles and bones. When functioning properly, tendons work with muscles to assist in movement. This normal travel and function is called tendon glide which is characterized by a smooth gliding motion. Inflammation or injury can impair this tendon glide.

Resistance Strengthening Exercise
Resistance Strengthening is typically achieved by using the force of strengthening resulting from resistance from an object like a hand, leg or weights or an elastic band to promote improved muscle conditioning. . This type of exercise promotes improved muscle conditioning. Over time, resistance exercise strengthens and tones muscles, which can help to reduce pain, help regain motion and improve overall hand function in the absence of arthritis inflammation.

Isometric Strengthening Exercise
Isometric strengthening is muscle strengthening through resistance in which force is applied against a resistant object without joint movement. It is one form of resistance strengthening that requires no movement yet promotes benefits that can reduce pain, increase range of motion and help one regain hand function.

Latex
Latex is a byproduct of the rubber tree and is used in numerous rubber goods. It has the ability to regain its former shape and size. While elastic bands are common, not all elastic bands are the same. Our color-coded elastic bands provide varying levels of resistance from light to heavy to meet the needs of those looking for flexibility (light resistance) or strengthening (heavy resistance) exercise following surgery or injury.  Latex-free bands are provided for latex sensitive users.

Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common of the many types of arthritis diseases. It is known for enlargement of the joints, pain and deformity and is found primarily in the hands and weight-bearing joints (like the knee). Gentle exercise can help relieve the pain by maintaining range of motion. While there is no one cause associated with osteoarthritis, there are many factors that can work together to put one at risk including age, injuries or overuse, weight, heredity or other types of arthritis.

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©2006 MedDev Corporation. Ultimate Hand Helper, Thumb Helper and Soft Touch are registered trademarks of MedDev Corporation. Patent Nos. 6007,460. 429,782. 358,859. , and 5,611,755. Specifications are subject to change without notification.