Which of the following is a type of mobilizing splint?

• A. serial static splints
• B. resting hand splint
• C. dorsal block splint
• D. posterior elbow splint

Answer: (A)

Mobilizing splints aim to lengthen shortened soft tissues by a low-load stretch that progresses over time. A serial static splint fits this idea exactly: you use a series of splints, each held in a static position but at a progressively longer length. Each stage maintains the joint in a lengthened position for a period, allowing tissues to adapt, and when you move to the next splint with a greater angle, you gain additional ROM in a controlled, gradual way. This approach is used specifically to address contractures and to encourage tissue remodeling without forcing active movement.

In contrast, a resting hand splint keeps the hand in a comfortable, neutral or functional position without encouraging tissue lengthening. A posterior elbow splint immobilizes the elbow to protect healing or stabilize a joint, not to promote gradual lengthening. A dorsal block splint is a specialized device used during tendon or joint rehab to control movement at certain joints (blocking some motion while allowing others) and is not the same as the serial progression designed to mobilize tissue through gradual lengthening.