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PANat
2009,
revised 02/2015, version 2017
13
Johnstone air splints were primarily designed for the stroke patient with
moderate to severely impaired motor control of movement. They provide an
effective and efficient method for training.
The user guide
only
includes general information and instructions for application and
handling of the air splints. Sample exercises are given to help develop your own exercise
programmes. Responsibility of treatment is guided by the skilled therapists. The overall
aim is to encourage and motivate active training as part of a task activity with the
underused hemiplegic side and to discourage learned disuse with its negative
consequences. Air splints can be used in combination with other low cost easy to use
tools thus allowing a greater intensity and variety of training.
The air splints were developed by physiotherapists Margaret Johnstone and Ann Thorp as
a rehabilitation aid for those with stroke and multiple sclerosis. Their ideas have been
updated and PANat was launched in January 2007 to reflect the development of the
underlying theoretical assumptions and therapeutic uses of these air splints.
To be effective it is essential that the air splints are applied and used as directed by this
user guide.
A number of research articles have used the air splints as passive resting tools applied in
positions and postures that may have a negative outcome on training and potential
recovery (e.g. Poole, 1990; Kwakkel, 1999, Platz, 2009). This is contrary to the aims
and use of the air splints as practiced by the PANat group.
With correct application and use of the air splints, the following advantages can be
observed:
Advantages of use
1. Biomechanical
To prevent secondary impairments of muscle shortening and loss of elasticity in
muscles (e.g. myofascia) and connective tissue (e.g. capsule joints).
To minimise undesirable muscle activity by maintaining joint alignment and
limiting the degree of freedom of movement in multi-joint movements. This is
especially important in the early stages of skill acquisition.
To strengthen muscle groups in functional activities/tasks, by allowing safe pain
free early static or dynamic weight bearing.
To encourage general fitness and strength, enabling the client to increase the time
spent in training.
To promote self-directed exercises in a safe and controlled environment, allowing
the client to progress more quickly, from independent hands-on training to active
problem solving hands-off situations.
2.
Sensory
To promote proprioceptive stimulation by weight bearing or limb loading on the
extremities in various activities and postural sets.
To have added sensory input with intermittent pneumatic compression in
combination with the air splints (tactile and proprioceptive).
For further information on theoretical background and courses please contact the
following address:
www.panat.info
