Innovative orthotic solutions for metacarpal fractures: comparative analysis of modified and original braces

This study investigates the comparative effectiveness of modified and original braces in the management of metacarpal fractures. Pressure measurements were collected from four healthy subjects fitted with both brace types during various states of finger flexion: at rest, flexed without force, and flexed with strength. Results from the IV° and V° dorsal and palmar aspects showed that both braces increased internal forces from the rest position to the closed fist position. The modified brace demonstrated lower peak pressures during forceful flexion, indicating a potential advantage in minimizing excessive pressure. In contrast, the original brace provided a more stable and consistent mechanical environment, crucial for maintaining proper alignment and reducing the risk of displacement. These findings suggest that while the modified brace may be beneficial in certain conditions, the original brace offers superior stability for fracture management. However, further research with larger sample sizes is required to determine the optimal orthosis for effective fracture treatment. This study underscores the role of controlled movement in orthoses for fracture stabilization, offering important insights into improving orthotic design for metacarpal fractures.