THE CURRENT PRACTICE OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS ON UPPER LIMB SPLINTING FOR STROKE PATIENTS IN SAUDI ARABIA: CROSS-SECTIONAL SURVEY

Abstract

Background:

Stroke is a major global cause of disability, with upper limb impairments significantly affecting daily function and quality of life. Occupational therapists play a crucial role in stroke rehabilitation, with splinting being a commonly used intervention. However, there is limited research on the splinting practices of occupational therapists in Saudi Arabia, leading to a gap in understanding how splinting is implemented in clinical settings.

Aim:

this study aimed to investigate the current practices of occupational therapists in Saudi Arabia regarding upper limb splinting for stroke rehabilitation. The objectives were to explore therapists’ knowledge and patterns of splinting practice, identify preferred splint types and regimes, identify occupational therapists’ clinical rationale for splinting and how occupational therapists view the effectiveness of splints, and examine factors influencing splinting decisions.

Methodology:

a cross-sectional survey was conducted among occupational therapists working with stroke patients in Saudi Arabia. A total of 82 participants completed an online questionnaire assessing their knowledge, splinting patterns, clinical rationale, and perceptions of effectiveness. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences v26 to identify trends and relationships between demographic variables and effectiveness and competence.

Results:

the findings revealed that most therapists had moderate competence in splinting, with university education and on-the-job training being the primary knowledge sources. Custom-made static splints were the most frequently preferred, while dynamic splints were rarely used. The primary clinical rationale for splinting was to reduce spasticity and prevent contractures. However, challenges such as limited resources, patient non-compliance, and financial constraints were reported as barriers to effective splinting. Despite these challenges, most therapists perceived splinting as a beneficial intervention for stroke rehabilitation. No significant differences in competence or perceived effectiveness were found based on education level or specialisation, though years of experience were positively correlated with higher competence.

Conclusion:

this study provides valuable insights into the splinting practices of occupational therapists in Saudi Arabia, highlighting areas for improvement in standardisation, training, and resource accessibility. The findings highlight the need for updated guidelines and professional development programmes to enhance splinting effectiveness. Future research should explore patient perspectives, adherence to splinting protocols, and long-term outcomes to further inform evidence-based practice in stroke rehabilitation.