Wrist, Elbow & Hand Orthotics in Montreal
Custom and prefabricated orthotics to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, sprains, and post-surgical recovery of the upper limbs.
Conditions we treat
The upper limbs — hands, wrists, and elbows — are essential to our daily independence. An injury or chronic condition affecting these joints can significantly impact work, leisure, and everyday activities. At Marchildon, our orthotists have deep expertise in evaluating and treating upper-limb pathologies with orthotic solutions.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers, especially at night. A wrist orthotic holds the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve and relieving symptoms. This conservative treatment is often the first line of defense before considering surgery.
Tendonitis and epicondylitis
Wrist tendonitis (De Quervain's) and elbow conditions (lateral epicondylitis or tennis elbow, medial epicondylitis or golfer's elbow) are treated with orthotics that immobilize or support the affected area, reducing the stresses that maintain inflammation and allowing the tendons to heal.
Sprains and fractures
Wrist and elbow sprains require appropriate immobilization to allow ligaments to heal. Fractures in the consolidation phase benefit from custom thermoformed orthotics that provide targeted protection while being lighter and more hygienic than a traditional cast.
Post-surgical recovery
After hand, wrist, or elbow surgery, custom orthotics are often required to protect repaired structures, control range of motion, and guide recovery. They are adjusted progressively according to the surgeon's protocol.
Custom or prefabricated?
The choice between a custom and a prefabricated orthotic depends on your condition, the precision of control required, and your morphology. Prefabricated orthotics are suitable for many common situations such as mild carpal tunnel or simple sprains. Custom orthotics, molded directly onto your limb from thermoplastic material, are indicated for post-surgical cases, fractures, and conditions requiring very precise positioning.
During your consultation, your orthotist will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate solution, taking into account therapeutic effectiveness, comfort, and your lifestyle.
Our orthotists are members of the Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (OTPQ) and the Association des Orthésistes-Prothésistes du Québec (AOPQ).
Frequently asked questions about upper limb orthotics
What upper-limb conditions do you treat with orthotics?
We treat a wide range of conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome, De Quervain's tendonitis, lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow), wrist and elbow sprains, healing fractures, arthritis and osteoarthritis of the fingers and wrist, as well as post-surgical sequelae of the hand, wrist, and elbow.
What is the difference between a custom and a prefabricated wrist orthotic?
A prefabricated orthotic comes in standard sizes and works well for most mild to moderate cases. It can be adjusted by your orthotist. A custom orthotic is molded directly onto your hand and wrist for a perfect fit. It is recommended for complex cases, atypical morphologies, or when precise control is needed.
How long should I wear a wrist orthotic for carpal tunnel syndrome?
For carpal tunnel syndrome, the orthotic is usually worn at night, since symptoms often worsen during sleep due to involuntary wrist flexion. Depending on severity, your orthotist may recommend additional daytime wear during specific activities. Treatment duration ranges from a few weeks to several months.
Are upper-limb orthotics covered by RAMQ?
Upper-limb orthotics prescribed by a physician are eligible for reimbursement by RAMQ under certain conditions. They may also be covered by CNESST (workplace injury), SAAQ (road accident), and most private insurers. The amount covered depends on the type of orthotic and your coverage plan.
Can I work with a wrist or elbow orthotic?
In most cases, yes. Orthotics are designed to allow you to continue daily and professional activities while protecting the injured area. Your orthotist can recommend a model suited to your work environment, including more discreet versions for office work.
How long does a custom hand orthotic take to fabricate?
Custom thermoplastic orthotics for the hand and wrist can often be molded and adjusted on the day of the consultation, in 45 to 60 minutes. More complex orthotics requiring special materials can take 1 to 2 weeks to fabricate.
Do you offer finger orthotics?
Yes, we offer finger orthotics including stabilization splints for fractures and sprains, resting orthotics for arthritis, corrective splints for deformities such as mallet finger or boutonnière deformity, and functional post-surgical orthotics.
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Our upper limb orthotics are available in our shop, with professional fitting by our orthotists.
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Discover RAMQ, CNESST, SAAQ, and private insurance coverage options for your upper-limb orthotics.
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Our orthotists will assess your condition and recommend the orthotic best suited to your hand, wrist, or elbow.
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