The Use of Splinting and Active Exercise following P.I.P. Joint Dislocation

The proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint is one of the most complex joints in the hand. Trauma to the PIP joint can leave the physiotherapist with the difficult task of achieving full functional pain free movement, while maintaining the joints stability. This paper describes a treatment method using a safe but effective splint and exercise regime, that returned the patient to his main hobby of gardening with almost full pain free movement, within four weeks, following a complex compound dislocation of his PIP joint.