Therapeutic functional bracing in upper limb fracture-dislocations.

The authors utilized the principle of functional bracing in the management of 307 fractures and/or dislocations of the upper limb. There were 29 humeral fractures, 111 fracture-dislocations around the elbow, 32 fractures of the forearm, and 135 fractures of the distal radius. The average follow-up was 9 months. The results showed that more than 95% of the patients regained good range of motion and power. The details of the technique and the protocols are described. The conclusion drawn from an analysis of the results is that functional bracing is a safe and effective method in the management of upper limb fracture dislocations.