Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CHT Practice Questions and Study Guide

The use of a cock-up splint is particularly indicated for conditions like wrist drop, which is characterized by the inability to actively extend the wrist and fingers due to radial nerve dysfunction. A cock-up splint positions the wrist in a functional position, typically in slight extension, which prevents the wrist from falling into a flexed position and allows for better hand function and protection of the hand and wrist.

In the case of wrist drop, the splint also helps to facilitate the active use of finger extensors, which may become more functional as nerve recovery occurs. Thus, it plays a pivotal role in rehabilitation by providing support and promoting optimal positioning.

Other conditions listed, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain's tenosynovitis, and trigger finger, often utilize different types of splints tailored to address specific symptoms and biomechanical issues. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome may benefit from a neutral wrist splint, while de Quervain's tenosynovitis might require a thumb spica splint to immobilize the thumb and provide relief from strain. Trigger finger often necessitates splinting that assists in extending the finger, which differs significantly from the function of a cock-up splint used for wrist drop.