The problems of postoperative position and motion in the hand must be solved with an appreciation of the inherently dynamic function of the hand as opposed to the essentially static nature of splinting. The wrist joint is especially vulnerable to injury by restraint in the acutely flexed position, and the finger joints are liable to damage if left in full extension. Judicious splinting in the correct position, with uninterrupted activity of the uninjured portion of the hand and early activation of the injured portion will lead to favorable results. Overlong restraint of the hand in any position will lead to stiffness, which in a non-functional position is doubly disastrous.
The hand is like a bird and it strongly resents being caged. If caged too long, it may not fly again.