The role of orthoses in the management of elbow joints in persons with haemophilia

The elbow joint is extremely prone to haemarthroses, and when these occur t he elbow requires support and rest. Supporting the limb with a simple colla r-and-cuff sling, a triangular bandage either with or without a shoulder im mobilization device will provide an analgesic effect without adding an unne cessary heavy orthosis. As the swelling subsides and the pain lessens a dyn amic orthosis aids in the support and compression. When considering functio nal bracing of the elbow joints there are a number of basic principles to b e followed. One requires to consider problems of orthosis suspension, two d imensional motion and stabilization in the functional range of motion. This article provides the rationale for the special needs of persons with haemo philia who suffer from involvement of their elbow joints.