WO2021246962A1

WO2021246962A1 - Finger splint

Info

Publication number: WO2021246962A1
Application number: PCT/SG2021/050311
Authority: WO
Inventors: Duncan Angus Mcgrouther; Alyssa LiYu TOH; Saleem ABDUL RAHIM; Yoke Rung WONG
Original assignee: Singapore Health Services Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2020-06-02
Filing date: 2021-06-01
Publication date: 2021-12-09

Abstract

A finger splint including an elongate base member having a first longitudinally extending side, a second longitudinally extending side and at least one volar support portion extending between the first longitudinally extending side and the second longitudinally extending side; and a cover member having a first edge, a second edge and a dorsal cover portion extending arcuately between the first edge and the second edge, wherein the first edge of the cover member in engagement with the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member cooperatively form a hinged joint holding the cover member and the elongate base member together and pivotable about the first longitudinally extending side between an open configuration and a closed configuration in a clam-shell like manner, wherein the second edge of the cover member and the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member are connectable to each other.

Description

FINGER SPLINT

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments generally relate to a finger splint. In particular, a finger splint for mallet finger, dorsal proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) dislocation, or swan neck deformity.

Background

[0002] Mallet finger is an injury to the tip of the finger or thumb that causes it to bend or droop towards the palm. This injury can occur when an object, e.g. a ball, strikes the tip of a finger or thumb and forces it to bend further than intended. It is well known that mallet finger injury can happen from daily activities such as washing and dressing too. Common symptoms of mallet finger include finger pain, swelling and bruising. Also, the fingertip will droop noticeably and cannot be straightened on its own without aid. Besides physical examination a doctor may order an X-ray to check for associated fracture.

[0003] Patients with mallet finger are unable to straighten the tip of affected finger because the extensor tendon connecting the muscle to the finger bone has been stretched or tom. This is referred to as soft tissue mallet finger. In other cases, the tendon does not get stretched or torn. Instead, a small bone fragment breaks off the finger where the tendon is attached. This is referred to as bony mallet finger.

[0004] The majority of mallet finger cases are treated non-surgically, with splinting. Surgical treatment may be considered when large bone fragments or joint mal-alignment are present or when non-surgical treatment is not feasible or unsuccessful in restoring adequate finger extension function. In such cases, pins, wires or small screws are used to secure the bone fragment and realign the joint.

[0005] The primary aim of non-surgical treatment or splinting is to maintain the mallet finger in a position of full extension or slight hyperextension for extensor tendon healing. Finger splints should be worn by patients full-time for 6 to 8 weeks, followed by 2 to 4 weeks of night-time wear. This means that during full-time splinting, the splint has to be worn even during bathing and hand washing. Compliance with maintaining continuous immobilization of the affected finger joint in full extension or slight hyperextension is crucial because healing is disrupted once the fingertip is allowed to flex or droop.

[0006] The most commonly used splints are the Stack splint, the Zimmer splint and their variations.

[0007] Traditional Stack splints are made of hard plastic material and are typically secured with non-elastic tape. Nowadays, modified Stack splints come in thermoplastic material that is more easily shaped to fit an individual’s finger and are secured with a pre-attached Velcro strap. However, patients are only able to independently adjust the tightness of the Velcro strap when their swelling subsides or worsens. The main body of the splint would still require reshaping using heat treatment, which patients will not be able to do independently. Also, despite perforations, large surface area of skin would remain covered, increasing perspiration, water retention and risks of skin maceration or the softening and breaking down of skin resulting from prolonged exposure to moisture.

[0008] The Zimmer splint includes of a piece of foam-padded aluminium that is typically secured to the mallet finger with two pieces of non-elastic tape. The piece of foam-padded aluminium could be applied to the dorsal or volar/palmar side of the finger. Although the Zimmer splint allows full flexibility in adjusting splint tightness, its main disadvantage is the difficult process of securing and removing the splint using only the uninjured hand, while maintaining the mallet finger in full extension or slight hyperextension.

[0009] A modified Zimmer splint is one that supports both the dorsal and volar/palmar side of the finger and can be secured by a pre-attached Velcro strap. This configuration also allows flexibility in adjusting splint fit, however, its main disadvantage is that large surface area of skin would be covered, increasing perspiration, water retention and risks of skin maceration.

[00010] Current high failure rate of mallet finger splinting can be attributed to a few core reasons or unmet needs.

[00011] For example, in a Stack splint: swelling may increase in injured finger, making the splint too small in size and painful to use; swelling of injured finger may subside, making the splint too loose for effective treatment; patient is expected to return to doctor for a better fitting splint; large surface area of finger covered would increase perspiration and risks of skin maceration or the softening and breaking down of skin resulting from prolonged exposure to moisture; it may be difficult to clean and dry the splint with unaffected hand, due to complex shape of splint surfaces; and it may be difficult for patient to put splint back on after cleaning and drying while maintaining finger in an extended position, due to splint configuration whereby patients is required to slip the splint on from the top of the fingertip. [00012] For example, in a Zimmer splint: tape may reduce adhesive strength, stretch and loosen over time, causing splint to loosen; patients may develop allergic reactions to tape; and it may be difficult for patient to remove and put splint back on securely after cleaning and drying while maintaining finger in an extended position, due to steps such as removing tape and re-taping splint especially at the extreme end of the fingertip.

[00013] For example, in modified Zimmer splint: large surface area of finger covered would increase perspiration and risks of skin maceration or the softening and breaking down of skin resulting from prolonged exposure to moisture.

[00014] In summary, the conventional finger splints for treating mallet finger have deficiencies involving: inadequate splint fit for fingers of different sizes and changing swell conditions, which would lead to splint-related pain and imperfect immobilization; splint wearing and securing difficulties, which pose as risks for accidentally flexing finger joint and disrupting the tendon healing process; and splint cleaning and drying difficulties that may lead to skin maceration and subsequently, poor compliance to splinting regimen and treatment failure.

[00015] The above typically contributes to low patient compliance to the mallet finger splint regimen of full-time splinting for 6 to 8 weeks and therefore, result in high non- surgical treatment failure rate of close to 50%. Treatment failure outcomes may include inadequate finger functionality and even the need for the patients to undergo surgical intervention to restore adequate finger extension function.

[00016] Accordingly, there is a need for a finger splint with enhanced usability to improve the patent compliance, for example to the mallet finger splint regimen.

Summary

[00017] According to various embodiments, there is provided a finger splint. The finger splint including an elongate base member having a first longitudinally extending side, a second longitudinally extending side and at least one volar support portion extending between the first longitudinally extending side and the second longitudinally extending side The finger splint further including a cover member having a first edge, a second edge and a dorsal cover portion extending arcuately between the first edge and the second edge, the first edge and the second edge being opposite edges of the cover member. The first edge of the cover member in engagement with a portion of the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member may cooperatively form a hinged joint holding the cover member and the elongate base member together and pivotable about the portion of the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member between an open configuration and a closed configuration in a clam-shell like manner. The second edge of the cover member may be pivoted away from the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member in the open configuration and the second edge of the cover member may be engaged with the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member in the closed configuration. The second edge of the cover member and the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member may be connectable to each other when pivoted to engage with each other.

Brief description of the drawings [00018] In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the following description, various embodiments are described with reference to the following drawings, in which: FIG. 1A shows a schematic diagram of a finger splint according to various embodiments;

FIG. IB shows the finger splint of FIG. 1A being worn on a finger according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C show various view of a finger splint in a closed configuration according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2D shows an exploded view of the finger splint of FIG. 2A according to various embodiments;

FIG. 2E shows the finger splint of FIG. 2 A in an open configuration according to various embodiments; FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C show various view of a finger splint in a closed configuration according to various embodiments; FIG. 3D shows an exploded view of the finger splint of FIG. 3 A according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3E shows the finger splint of FIG. 3 A in an open configuration according to various embodiments; FIG. 4A show various a finger splint in an open configuration according to various embodiments;

FIG. 4B shows a plan view of an elongate base member of the finger splint of FIG. 4A according to various embodiments; and

FIG. 4C shows a side view of the elongate base member of FIG. 4B according to various embodiments.

Detailed description

[00019] Embodiments described below in the context of the apparatus are analogously valid for the respective methods, and vice versa. Furthermore, it will be understood that the embodiments described below may be combined, for example, a part of one embodiment may be combined with a part of another embodiment.

[00020] It should be understood that the terms “on”, “over”, “top”, “bottom”, “down”, “side”, “back”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “lateral”, “side”, “up”, “down” etc., when used in the following description are used for convenience and to aid understanding of relative positions or directions, and not intended to limit the orientation of any device, or structure or any part of any device or structure. In addition, the singular terms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the word “or” is intended to include “and” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[00021] As discussed previously, current commonly-used mallet finger splints result in high non-surgical mallet finger treatment failure rates of almost 50%. Such failure to treat a mallet finger non- surgically can result in poor functional outcomes, persistent pain, chronic joint instability, joint subluxation, swan-neck deformity and other deformities, which may require subsequent surgical intervention. The high splinting treatment failure rate can generally be attributed to: poor treatment compliance; accidental treatment disruption; and inadequate finger joint immobilization. [00022] Various embodiments generally relate to a finger splint. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may address the poor treatment compliance and reduces risks of skin complications. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to be porous, waterproof and include clip-on features to address poor treatment compliance. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured for ease of splint wear, removal, cleaning and drying so as to reduce risks of skin complications. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may include a hinge and latch mechanism which allows patients to slip their finger into the finger splint sideways, i.e. from the side or laterally, rather than inserting or passing their entire injured finger axially through the conventional splints, i.e. with the tip of the finger advancing through the conventional splints in a longitudinal direction. Accordingly, various embodiments, may reduce the risks of patients bending their fingertip joint by accident, resulting in the disruption of the healing process. Furthermore, various embodiments may be configured for modular sizing to ensure good splint fit by allowing patients to easily replace the dorsal component to one of a tighter fit when finger’s swelling subsides, for instance. Accordingly, patients do not have to wait 2-4 weeks to consult the occupational therapist for remoulding of their thermoplastic splints (i.e. current standard practice for conventional splint). Further, a good splint fit may also reduce discomfort and pain for the patient, which in turn may contribute to better treatment compliance.

[00023] According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to maintain the fingertip joint (or distal interphalangeal joint, DIP joint) in full extension or slight hyperextension. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to counteract the fleshy part of the distal fingertip and maintain the fingertip joint in full extension or slight hyperextension. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to allow proximal finger joint mobility. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to provide minimal skin coverage. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to be porous. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to be waterproof. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to be simple to put on and remove single-handedly. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to be comfortable and lightweight. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured to be modular for sizing and splint fit. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may be configured for low cost manufacturing. [00024] While the finger splint according to the various embodiments is described with reference to the treatment of mallet finger in the following, it is understood that the finger splint according to the various embodiments may also be used for the treatment of dorsal proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) dislocation, or swan neck deformity.

[00025] FIG. 1A shows a schematic diagram of a finger splint 100 according to various embodiments. FIG. IB shows the finger splint 100 being worn on a finger 102.

[00026] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 100 may include an elongate base member 110. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 may include a first longitudinally extending side 112 and a second longitudinally extending side 114. Each of the first longitudinally extending side 112 and the second longitudinally extending side 114 may stretch in a longitudinal direction of the elongate base member 110. It should be understood that the phrase “first longitudinally extending side 112” when used in the following description may refer to either one of the longitudinal sides of the elongate base member 110 and the phrase “second longitudinally extending side 114” when used in the following description may refer to a corresponding opposite longitudinal side of the elongate base member 110. These phrases are not intended to be limited to that as shown in the drawings. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 may include at least one volar support portion 116 extending between the first longitudinally extending side 112 and the second longitudinally extending side 114. The at least one volar support portion 116 may stretch from the first longitudinally extending side 112 to the second longitudinally extending side 114, and may be an arrangement to abut and support the volar surface (or palmar surface or underside surface) of the finger 102. For example, the at least one volar support portion may be configured to support the volar surfaces of the fingertip 104 (or distal phalanx) and the middle section 106 (or middle phalanx) of the finger 102. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 116 may be extending arcuately or perpendicularly between the first longitudinally extending side 112 and the second longitudinally extending side 114. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 116 may be configured to correspond with a shape of the volar surfaces of the finger 102. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 116 may include a single elongate volar support portion 116 longitudinally aligned between the first longitudinally extending side 112 and the second longitudinally extending side 114. Accordingly, the single elongate volar support portion 116 may be one elongate structure extending longitudinally across the fingertip 104 and the middle section 106 of the finger 102. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 116 may include two volar support portions 216 (for example, see FIG. 2A) or two structures for supporting the volar surfaces. A first volar support portion or structure may be disposed towards a first longitudinal end portion of the elongate base member 110 and a second volar support portion or structure may be disposed towards a second longitudinal end portion of the elongate base member 110. Accordingly, the first volar support portion may be configured to support the fingertip 104 of the finger 102, and the second volar support portion may be configured to support the middle section 106 of the finger 102. Hence, the first volar support portion may extend transversely underneath the fingertip 104 of the finger 102, and the second volar support portion may extend transversely underneath the middle section 106 of the finger 102.

[00027] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 100 may include a cover member 120. The cover member 120 may include a first edge 122 and a second edge 124. The first edge 122 and the second edge 124 may be opposite edges or boundaries or borders of the cover member 120. According to various embodiments, the cover member 120 may include a dorsal cover portion 126 extending arcuately between the first edge 122 and the second edge 124. The dorsal cover portion 126 may stretch from the first edge 122 to the second edge 124, and may be an arrangement to abut and support the dorsal surface (or upper side surface) of the finger 102. For example, the dorsal cover portion 126 may be configured to support the dorsal surface of the middle section 106 (or middle phalanx) of the finger 102. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 126 may bend or curve between the first edge 122 and the second edge 124. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 126 may be configured to correspond with a shape of the dorsal surface of the finger 102. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 126 may include a single structure configured to extend transversely over the dorsal surface of the middle section 106 of the finger 102.

[00028] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 100 may provide a three- point support arrangement for keeping a fingertip joint 108 of the finger 102 (or mallet finger) in a full extension or slight hyper extension. According to various embodiments, the three-point support arrangement may include providing volar support to the middle section 106 of the finger 102, providing volar support to the fingertip 104 of the finger 102, and providing dorsal support to the middle section 106 of the finger 102. Accordingly, the three- point support arrangement of the finger splint 100 may effectively hold the fingertip joint 108 in full extension or slight hyper extension while avoiding application of pressure or force to the vulnerable and sensitive skin area close to the fingernail bed of the finger 102. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 may be a solid resilient member and the cover member 120 may be a solid resilient member such that together they may form the three -point support arrangement for keeping the fingertip joint 108 of the finger fully extended or slightly hyper-extended. Accordingly, the elongate base member 110 may be a first shell part for the volar surface of the finger 102 and the cover member 120 may be a second shell part for the dorsal surface of the finger 102, whereby the first shell part and the second shell part may close onto each other to hold the finger 102 therebetween with the fingertip joint 108 in full extension or slight hyper extension.

[00029] According to various embodiments, the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 in engagement with a portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may cooperatively form a hinged joint 130. According to various embodiments, the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may be in engagement, for example, when the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 are integrally molded or printed as a single piece such that the engagement between the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 is a transition between the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120, or when the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 are two separate pieces connected together via engaging or mating or joining the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110. According to various embodiments, the hinged joint 130 formed between the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 along the engagement between the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may enable the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 to be pivotable relative to each other about a pivoting axis 118 coinciding with the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110. Accordingly, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be pivotable relative to each other about the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be pivotable about the hinged joint 130 between an open configuration and a closed configuration in a clam-shell like manner. In the open configuration, the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 may be pivoted away from the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110. In the closed configuration, the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 may be pivoted towards and engaged with the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110. Accordingly, the finger splint 100 may be opened up from a longitudinal side of the finger splint 100 such that the finger splint 100 may be put on or removed sideways or laterally from a side of the finger 102. Hence, the hinged joint 130 may be configured for sideways opening and closing of the finger splint 100.

[00030] It should be understood that while the drawings depicted one configuration of the finger splint 100 whereby the hinged joint 130 formed between the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 is at the longitudinal side of the finger splint 100 as illustrated, the hinged joint 130 can also be at the opposite longitudinal side of the finger splint 100 in another configuration with the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 being at the corresponding side. The drawings are not intended to be limiting, it should be understood that forming the hinged joint 130 at either longitudinal sides of the finger splint 100 is within the changes, modification and variation conceivable by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle of the various embodiments as described herein. According to various embodiment, depending on which hand the injured finger is on, the finger splint 100 may be configured to have the hinged joint 130 on either longitudinal sides of the finger splint 100 depending on user preference as well as ease of use.

[00031] According to various embodiments, the hinged joint 130 may hold the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 together. In particular, the hinged joint 130 may hold or keep or retain the cover member 120 in the open configuration with respect to the elongate base member 110. Accordingly, in the open configuration, the hinged joint 130 may hold or keep the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 together in a manner such that the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 may be kept from falling apart or separating, in particular, when the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 are two separate pieces. Hence, in the open configuration, whereby the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 is pivoted away from the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110, the hinged joint 130 may still be holding or keeping or retaining the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 together such that the finger splint 100 may be put on or removed from the finger 102 as a single unit or assembly.

[00032] According to various embodiments, the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 and the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110 may be connectable to each other when pivoted to engage with each other. According to various embodiments, the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 and the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110 may be detachably connectable. Accordingly, the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 and the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110 may be connected or connectable to each other in a manner so as to be capable of being removed from each other. According to various embodiments, each of the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 and the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110 may include a coupling element or an interlockable element so as to be connectable to each other. According to various embodiments, the coupling element or the interlockable element may include, but not limited to, snap-fit fastener, hook-and-loop fastener, clip-on fastener, hook-and-eye closure, clamp, pins, press stud, snap fastener, etc.

[00033] Conventional finger splint typically requires the patient to thread an injured fingertip longitudinally through the finger splint or to insert the injured fingertip into the finger splint in the longitudinal direction. In contrast, the finger splint 100 according to various embodiments may function like a clip with a hinge and latch mechanism. For example, the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 may be pivotable about the hinged joint 130 between the engagement of the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110. Further, the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 may subsequently be locked or latched when the second edge 124 of the cover member 120 and the second longitudinally extending side 114 of the elongate base member 110 are pivoted towards each other and engaged with each other for locking. Accordingly, unlike the conventional finger splint, the finger splint 100 according to various embodiments may be easily put on or removed sideways or laterally from the side of the finger 102. According to various embodiments, lateral wearing or application of the finger splint 100 to the finger 102 may reduce the risk or probability of accidentally bending the fingertip joint 108 and disrupting the extensor tendon healing process. Furthermore, the hinge and latch mechanism may allow the user to secure the finger splint 100 to the mallet finger easily, accurately and singlehandedly. This may eliminate the need for Velcro or non-elastic tape like the Stack splint and Zimmer splint, which is difficult for mallet finger patients to secure with only one uninjured hand.

[00034] According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be integrally molded or printed or casted as a single piece. Accordingly, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be formed integrally by molding or printing or casting as a single molded or printed or casted piece. According to various embodiments, the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 may be in engagement with the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 via a living hinge. Accordingly, the hinged joint 130 formed between the engagement of the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may include the living hinge. According to various embodiments, the living hinge may include a hinge line, a flexible hinge or a flexure hinge which is compliant in one degree of freedom. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be capable of bending along the living hinge to allow relative pivoting motion. According to various embodiments, all three parts (namely the elongate base member 110, the cover member 120 and the living hinge) may be molded or printed or casted as a single piece at one time. [00035] According to various embodiments, the living hinge may include a fold line between the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120. The fold line may be thinned or cut to have a thickness thinner than the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120. Accordingly, the living hinge may be a thinned out or cut out line between the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 to allow bending along the line for relative pivoting motion.

[00036] According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be two separate pieces joined together by a hinge component between the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110. Accordingly, the hinged joint 130 formed between the engagement of the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may include the hinge component. According to various embodiments, each of the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be separately molded or printed or casted. According to various embodiments, the hinge component may be a separate complete hinge device by itself which is independent of the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120. Accordingly, the elongate base member 110, the cover member 120 and the hinge component may be coupled or connected together in a manner so as to form a single integrated assembly. The hinge component may interconnect the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120, or may be connecting between the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120. According to various embodiments, the hinge component may include at least two leaves interlocked with a pin passing through respective knuckle of each leaf. Accordingly, the at least two leaves of the hinge component may be pivotable about the pin. According to various embodiments, the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 may be coupled to one of the at least two leaves of the hinge component and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may be coupled to another one of the at least two leaves of the hinge component. Therefore, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be pivotable relative to each other via the hinge component.

[00037] According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be two separate pieces. Further, the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may be detachably connectable to each other to form the hinge joint 130. Accordingly, the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may be directly connected or connectable to each other in a manner so as to be capable of being removed from each other. Further, when the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 are connected to each other, the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 may be relatively pivotable such that the connection therebetween serve or function as the hinged joint 130. According to various embodiments, each of the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 may be separately molded or printed or casted.

[00038] According to various embodiments, each of the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may include a coupling element or an interlockable element so as to be detachably connectable to each other. According to various embodiments, the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 may include a first coupling element and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may include a second coupling element. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element may be integral with the first edge 122 of the cover member 120. According to various embodiments, the second coupling element may be integral with the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element and the second coupling element may engage with or connect to each other to form the hinge joint 130 capable of allowing pivoting motion between the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 as well as capable of holding the cover member 120 and the elongate base member 110 together in place when in the open configuration. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element and the second coupling element may be a pair of protrusion and recess configured to be removably fitted together in a manner so as to be pivotable relative to each other when fitted as well as to hold onto each other when fitted. According to various embodiments, the pair of protrusion and recess may be removably fitted together in a manner similar to, including but not limited to, snap-fit fastener, clip-on fastener, hook-and-eye closure, snap fastener, etc. Accordingly, the first coupling element and the second coupling element may be in engagement when fitted together. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element of the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the second coupling of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may be fitted together to form a snap-together-hinge or a snap-fit-hinge. Accordingly, the hinged joint 130 formed between the engagement of the first edge 122 of the cover member 120 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 112 of the elongate base member 110 may include the snap-together-hinge or the snap-fit-hinge.

[00039] According to various embodiments, each of the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 of the finger splint 100 may be made of waterproof material. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 116 of the elongate base member 110 may include perforations. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 126 of the cover member 120 may include perforations. According to various embodiments, the finger splint 100 may include a padding attached to an underside of the dorsal cover portion 126 of the cover member 120. The padding may include a sheet of silicon padding. According to various embodiments, the padding may introduce added comfort to the sensitive dorsal side skin. According to various embodiments, the padding may also introduce friction to prevent the finger splint 100 from slipping off the finger 102 in the axial direction According to various embodiments, the finger splint 100 may include a padding attached to an upper side of the at least one volar support portion 116 of the elongate base member 110. The padding may include a sheet of silicon padding. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 110 may be made of light-weight polymeric materials. For example, the elongate base member 110 may be printed via three dimensional (3D) printing and may be made of flexible 3D printing materials, such as resin and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). According to various embodiments, the cover member 120 may be made of light-weight polymeric materials. For example, the cover member 120 may be printed via 3D printing and may be made of flexible 3D printing materials, such as resin and TPU. According to various embodiments, printing the elongate base member 110 and the cover member 120 via 3D printing with flexible 3D printing materials may provide better grip.

[00040] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C show various view of a finger splint 200 in a closed configuration according to various embodiments. FIG. 2D shows an exploded view of the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A according to various embodiments. FIG. 2E shows the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A in an open configuration according to various embodiments.

[00041] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 200 may, similar to the finger splint 100 of FIG. 1A, include an elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may include a first longitudinally extending side 212 and a second longitudinally extending side 214. Each of the first longitudinally extending side 212 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 may stretch in a longitudinal direction of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may include at least one volar support portion 216 extending between the first longitudinally extending side 212 and the second longitudinally extending side 214. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 216 may be an arrangement to abut and support the volar surface (or palmar surface or underside surface) of a finger. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 216 may be configured to support the volar surfaces of a fingertip (or distal phalanx) and a middle section (or middle phalanx) of the finger. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 216 may be extending arcuately between the first longitudinally extending side 212 and the second longitudinally extending side 214. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 216 may be configured to correspond with a shape of the volar surfaces of the finger. According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 216 may include two volar support portions 216a, 216b or two structures for supporting the volar surfaces. A first volar support portion 216a or structure may be disposed towards a first longitudinal end portion 210a of the elongate base member 210 and a second volar support portion 216b or structure may be disposed towards a second longitudinal end portion 210b of the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, the first volar support portion 216a may be configured to support the middle section of the finger, and the second volar support portion 216b may be configured to support the fingertip of the finger. Hence, when the finger splint 200 is worn on the finger, the first volar support portion 216a may extend transversely underneath the middle section of the finger, and the second volar support portion 216b may extend transversely underneath the fingertip of the finger. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may be molded or printed or casted as a one-piece structure. [00042] According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may have a width or breadth between 15mm to 30 mm, or 18 mm to 28 mm, or 18mm to 22mm. For example, the elongate base member 210 may have a width of 25mm or 20mm. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may have a width that ensures the compactness of the finger splint 200 and minimises interference with neighbouring fingers when the finger splint 200 is worn.

[00043] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 200 may, similar to the finger splint 100 of FIG. 1, include a cover member 220. The cover member 220 may include a first edge 222 and a second edge 224. The first edge 222 and the second edge 224 may be opposite edges or boundaries or borders of the cover member 220. According to various embodiments, the cover member 220 may include a dorsal cover portion 226 extending arcuately between the first edge 222 and the second edge 224. The dorsal cover portion 226 may stretch from the first edge 222 to the second edge 224, and may be an arrangement to abut and support the dorsal surface (or upper side surface) of the finger. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 226 may be configured to support the dorsal surface of the middle section (or middle phalanx) of the finger. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 226 may bend or curve between the first edge 222 and the second edge 224. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 226 may be configured to correspond with a shape of the dorsal surface of the middle section of the finger 202. According to various embodiments, when the finger splint 200 is worn on the finger, the dorsal cover portion 226 may include a single structure configured to extend transversely over the dorsal surface of the middle section of the finger. According to various embodiments, the cover member 220 may be molded or printed or casted as a one-piece structure.

[00044] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 200 may, similar to the finger splint 100 of FIG. 1, provide a three-point support arrangement for keeping a fingertip joint of the finger (or mallet finger) in a full extension or slight hyper extension. According to various embodiments, the three -point support arrangement may include providing volar support to the middle section of the finger, providing volar support to the fingertip of the finger, and providing dorsal support to the middle section of the finger. Accordingly, the three-point support arrangement of the finger splint 200 may effectively hold the fingertip joint in full extension or slight hyper extension while avoiding application of pressure or force to the vulnerable and sensitive skin area close to the fingernail bed of the finger. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may be a solid resilient member and the cover member 220 may be a solid resilient member such that together they may form the three -point support arrangement for keeping the fingertip joint of the finger fully extended or slightly hyper-extended. Accordingly, the elongate base member 210 may be a first shell part for the volar surface of the finger and the cover member 220 may be a second shell part for the dorsal surface of the finger, whereby the first shell part and the second shell part may close onto each other to hold the finger therebetween with the fingertip joint in full extension or slight hyper extension. According to various embodiments, since the elongate base member 210 may only be supporting the volar surfaces of the fingertip and the middle section of the finger, the finger splint 200 may allow bending of the proximal finger joint while being worn on the finger to maintain the fingertip joint in full extension or slight hyper extension.

[00045] According to various embodiments, the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 in engagement with a portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may cooperatively form a hinged joint 230, similar to that of the finger splint 100 of FIG. 1A. According to various embodiments, the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may be in engagement when the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220, which are two separate pieces, are connected together via engaging or mating or joining the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the hinged joint 230 formed between the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 along the engagement between the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may enable the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 to be pivotable relative to each other about a pivoting axis coinciding with the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 may be pivotable relative to each other about the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 may be pivotable about the hinged joint 230 between an open configuration and a closed configuration in a clam-shell like manner. In the open configuration, the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 may be pivoted away from the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210. In the closed configuration, the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 may be pivoted towards and engaged with the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, the finger splint 200 may be opened up from a longitudinal side of the finger splint 200 such that the finger splint 200 may be put on or removed sideways or laterally from a side of the finger. Hence, the hinged joint 230 may be configured for sideways opening and closing of the finger splint 200.

[00046] According to various embodiments, the hinged joint 230 may hold the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 together. In particular, the hinged joint 230 may hold or keep or retain the cover member 220 in the open configuration with respect to the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, in the open configuration, the hinged joint 230 may hold or keep the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 together in a manner such that the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 may be kept from falling apart or separating, in particular, when the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 are two separate pieces. Hence, in the open configuration, whereby the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 is pivoted away from the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210, the hinged joint 230 may still be holding or keeping or retaining the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 together such that the finger splint 200 may be put on or removed from the finger as a single unit or assembly.

[00047] According to various embodiments, the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 may be connectable to each other when pivoted to engage with each other. According to various embodiments, the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 may be detachably connectable. Accordingly, the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 may be connected or connectable to each other in a manner so as to be capable of being removed from each other. According to various embodiments, each of the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 may include a coupling element or an interlockable element so as to be connectable to each other. As shown, according to various embodiments, the coupling element or the interlockable element may include, but not limited to, snap-fit fastener, clip-on fastener, snap fastener, etc.

[00048] Similar to the finger splint 100 of FIG. 1A, the finger splint 200 according to various embodiments may function like a clip with a hinge and latch mechanism. For example, the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 may be pivotable about the hinged joint 230 between the engagement of the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210. Further, the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 may subsequently be locked or latched when the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 are pivoted towards each other and engaged with each other for locking. Accordingly, the finger splint 200 according to various embodiments may be easily put on or removed sideways or laterally from the side of the finger. According to various embodiments, lateral wearing or application of the finger splint 100 to the finger 102 may reduce the risk or probability of accidentally bending the fingertip joint 108 and disrupting the extensor tendon healing process. Furthermore, the hinge and latch mechanism may allow the user to secure the finger splint 100 to the mallet finger easily, accurately and singlehandedly. This may eliminate the need for Velcro or non-elastic tape like the Stack splint and Zimmer splint, which is difficult for mallet finger patients to secure with only one uninjured hand.

[00049] According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 may be two separate pieces. Further, the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may be detachably connectable to each other to form the hinge joint 230. Accordingly, the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may be directly connected or connectable to each other in a manner so as to be capable of being removed from each other. Further, when the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 are connected to each other, the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 may be relatively pivotable such that the connection therebetween serve or function as the hinged joint 230. [00050] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 200 may be modular as the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 are two separate pieces. Being modular may allow users to retain the elongate base member 210 and simply change or replace the cover member 220 of different sizes for improved fit, it their finger swells or subsides.

[00051] According to various embodiments, each of the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may include a coupling element or an interlockable element so as to be detachably connectable to each other. According to various embodiments, the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 may include a first coupling element 232 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 110 may include a second coupling element 234. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element 232 may be integral with the first edge 222 of the cover member 220. According to various embodiments, the second coupling element 234 may be integral with the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element 232 and the second coupling element 234 may engage with or connect to each other to form the hinge joint 230 capable of allowing pivoting motion between the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 as well as capable of holding the cover member 220 and the elongate base member 210 together in place when in the open configuration. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element 232 and the second coupling element 234 may be a pair of protrusion and recess configured to be removably fitted together in a manner so as to be pivotable relative to each other when fitted as well as to hold onto each other when fitted. According to various embodiments, the pair of protrusion and recess may be removably fitted together in a manner similar to, including but not limited to, snap-fit fastener, clip-on fastener, hook-and-eye closure, snap fastener, etc. Accordingly, the first coupling element 232 and the second coupling element 234 may be in engagement when fitted together. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element 232 of the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the second coupling 234 of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may be fitted together to form a snap-together-hinge or a snap-fit-hinge. Accordingly, the hinged joint 230 formed between the engagement of the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may include the snap -together-hinge or the snap -fit-hinge. [00052] According to various embodiments, the first coupling element 232 may include a C-shaped clip 231. The C-shaped clip 231 may be at the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and oriented with an opening of the C-shaped clip 231, which is between two opposing lips 231a, 231b of the C-shaped clip 231, directed away from the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220. Accordingly, the C-shaped clip 231 may protrude from the first edge 222 of the cover member 220. Further, the opening of the C-shaped clip 231 between the two opposing lips 231a, 23 lb of the C-shaped clip 231 may be oriented to align with the first edge 222 of the cover member 220. According to various embodiments, the second coupling element 234 may include a longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance 233. The longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance 233 may be located at the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 and may include a cylindrical shape protrusion oriented to align in the longitudinal direction of the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, the longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance 233 may be protruding sideways from the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210.

[00053] According to various other embodiments (not shown), the first coupling element 232 and the second coupling element 234 may be reversed. According to various embodiments, the first coupling element 232 may include a cylindrical protuberance aligned to the first edge 222 of the cover member 220. The cylindrical protuberance may be located at the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 and may include a cylindrical shape protrusion oriented to align with the first edge 222 of the cover member 220. Accordingly, the cylindrical protuberance may be protruding sideways from the first edge 222 of the cover member 220. According to various embodiments, the second coupling element 234 may include a C-shaped clip. The C-shaped clip may be at the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 and oriented with an opening of the C- shaped clip, which is between two opposing lips of the C-shaped clip, directed away from the volar support portion 216 of the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, the C-shaped clip may protrude from the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210. Further, the opening of the C-shaped clip between the two opposing lips of the C-shaped clip may be oriented to align in the longitudinal direction of the elongate base member 210.

[00054] According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may include a first longitudinal rib 211 along the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 and a second longitudinal rib 213 along the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the first longitudinal rib 211 may extend along an entire length of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the second longitudinal rib 213 may extend along an entire length of the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may strengthen the elongate base member 210 for supporting the volar surface of the finger. According to various embodiments, the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may connect to the two volar support portions 216a, 216b along the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 respectively. Accordingly, the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may hold and support the two volar support portions 216a, 216b in position with respect to each other such that two volar support portions 216a, 216b (i.e. the first volar support potion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b) may serve to support the volar surfaces of the middle section and the fingertip of the finger respectively. Hence, the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may strengthen the elongate base member 210 in a manner so as to minimise or prevent relative movement between the two volar support portions 216a, 216b in a transverse direction with respect to the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, each of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may include a circular cross-sectional profile. Accordingly, each of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may be a circular rod or circular bar.

[00055] According to various embodiments, each of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may include a first section 21 la, 213a and a second section 21 lb, 213b. According to various embodiments, the second section 211b, 213b may be angled off a plane 215 containing both the first sections 211a, 213a of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213. Accordingly, each of the second sections 21 lb, 213b of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may form an angle with respect to the plane 215 in which both the first sections 211a, 213a of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 lie. According to various embodiments, a normal vector of both the second sections 211b, 213b of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 with respect to the plane 215 containing both the first sections 211a, 213a may be the same. Accordingly, an angle formed between the second section 211b, 213b and the first section 211a, 213a of each of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may be the same. According to various embodiments, with the second sections 211b, 213b of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 elevated with respect to the first sections 211a, 213a of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213, the finger splint 200 may counteract the fleshy part of the distal fingertip and maintain the fingertip joint in full extension or slight hyperextension.

[00056] According to various embodiments, the first sections 211a, 213a of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may be parallel to each other. Accordingly, the first sections 211a, 213a of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may be extending along the plane 215 in the same direction, equidistance apart and never converging or diverging.

[00057] According to various embodiments, the second sections 211b, 213b of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may be angled towards each other in a converging manner. Accordingly, vectors in the plane 215 for the second sections 211b, 213b of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may be converging towards each other.

[00058] According to various embodiments, the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210, to which the first edge 222 of the cover member 220 is engaged, may be the first section 211a of the first longitudinal rib 211. Accordingly, the second coupling element 234 in the form of the longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance 233 at the portion of the first longitudinally extending side 212 of the elongate base member 210 may be a segment of the first section 211a of the first longitudinal rib 211 having the circular cross-section. According to various embodiments, with the cover member 220 connectable to the first section 21 la of the first longitudinal rib 211 of the elongate base member 210, the cover member 220 may be positioned at the middle section of the finger, which is adjacent to the fingertip joint, so as to prevent slippage and prevent skin complications and reduce pain at the vulnerable and sensitive area close to the finger nail bed.

[00059] According to various embodiments, each of the first volar support portion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b may be extending between the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213. Accordingly, each of the first volar support portion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b may stretch from the first longitudinal rib 211 to the second longitudinal rib 213. Hence, each of the first volar support portion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b may be suspended between the first longitudinal rib 211 to the second longitudinal rib 213 in a manner so as to lie across a width between the first longitudinal rib 211 to the second longitudinal rib 213.

[00060] According to various embodiments, the first volar support portion 216a may extend between the first sections 211a, 213a of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213. According to various embodiments, the second volar support portion 216b may extend between the second sections 211b, 213b of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213. According to various embodiments, the first volar support portion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b may be located at two opposite longitudinal ends of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213.

[00061] According to various embodiments, the first volar support portion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b may be longitudinally spaced apart from each other in a manner such that there is a gap 217 between the first volar support portion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b lengthwise along the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, each of the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213 may be extending in a continuous manner along an entire length of the first longitudinally extending side 212 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 respectively. Accordingly, the gap 218 in the elongate base member 210 may be defined or bordered by the first volar support portion 216a, the second volar support portion 216b, the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213. [00062] According to various embodiments, each of the first volar support portion 216a and the second volar support portion 216b may be extending arcuately between the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213. According to various embodiments, in the closed configuration, a convex surface of the first volar support portion 216a may be directed away from the cover member 220 and a concave surface of the first volar support portion 216a may be facing the cover member 220.

[00063] According to various embodiments, the first volar support portion 216a may be narrower in a center and wider towards lateral sides respectively joining the first longitudinal rib 211 and the second longitudinal rib 213. Accordingly, the the first volar support portion 216a may be shaped to have a narrower center.

[00064] According to various embodiments, the second volar support portion 216b may be of an arch shape pointing away from the first volar support 216a in the longitudinal direction of the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, a convex edge of the arch shape of the second volar support portion 216b may be pointing away from the first volar support 216a. According to various embodiments, the arch shape may be configured to correspond with a rounded end of the fingertip.

[00065] According to various embodiments, each of the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 may include a coupling element or an interlockable element so as to be detachably connectable to each other. According to various embodiments, the second edge 222 of the cover member 220 may include a third coupling element 236 and the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 110 may include a fourth coupling element 238. According to various embodiments, the third coupling element 236 may be integral with the second edge 224 of the cover member 220. According to various embodiments, the fourth coupling element 238 may be integral with the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the third coupling element 236 and the fourth coupling element 238 may engage with or connect to each other in a manner similar to that of the first coupling element 232 and the second coupling element 234. According to various embodiments, the third coupling element 236 and the fourth coupling element 238 may be a pair of protrusion and recess configured to be removably fitted together in a similar fashion with that of the first coupling element 232 and the second coupling element 234. According to various embodiments, the pair of protrusion and recess may be removably fitted together in a manner similar to, including but not limited to, snap-fit fastener, clip-on fastener, hook-and-eye closure, snap fastener, etc. Accordingly, the third coupling element 236 and the fourth coupling element 238 may be in engagement when fitted together. According to various embodiments, the third coupling element 236 of the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the fourth coupling 238 of the second longitudinally extending side 2142 of the elongate base member 210 may be snap fitted together.

[00066] According to various embodiments, the third coupling element 236 may, similar to the first coupling element 232, include a C-shaped clip 235. The C-shaped clip 235 may be at the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and oriented with an opening of the C- shaped clip 235, which is between two opposing lips 235a, 235b of the C-shaped clip 235, directed away from the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220. Accordingly, the C-shaped clip 235 may protrude from the second edge 224 of the cover member 220. Further, the opening of the C-shaped clip 235 between the two opposing lips 235a, 235b of the C-shaped clip 235 may be oriented to align with the second edge 224 of the cover member 220. According to various embodiments, the fourth coupling element 238 may include a longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance 237. The longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance 234 may be located at the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210 and may be oriented to align in the longitudinal direction of the elongate base member 210. According to various embodiments, the longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance 233 may be the first section 213a of the second longitudinal rib 213.

[00067] According to various other embodiments (not shown), the third coupling element 236 and the fourth coupling element 238 may be reversed. Accordingly, the third coupling element 236 may include a cylindrical protuberance aligned to the second edge 224 of the cover member 220 and the fourth coupling element 238 may include a C-shaped clip at the second longitudinally extending side 214 of the elongate base member 210.

[00068] According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220 may be wider in a center and narrower towards the first edge 222 and the second edge 224. According to various embodiments, the wider center may help to distribute pressure over a wider area of the more sensitive dorsal side skin. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220 may have a shape similar to a bi-convex shape.

[00069] According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220 may be extending arcuately between the first edge 222 and the second edge 224 in a manner such that, in the closed configuration, a convex surface of the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220 may be directed away from the elongate base member 210 and a concave surface of the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220 may be facing the elongate base member 210. Accordingly, the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220 may cover over the middle section of the finger so as to hold the finger splint 200 in place with respect to the finger.

[00070] According to various embodiments, each of the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 of the finger splint 200 may be made of waterproof material. According to various embodiments, the finger splint 200 being waterproof and having minimal skin coverage may allow the finger and splint to dry easily after exposure to water, which would help reduce the risks of water-related skin complications and associated non- compliance to the splinting regimen. According to various embodiments, the finger splint 200 may include a padding attached to an underside of the dorsal cover portion 226 of the cover member 220. The padding may include a sheet of silicon padding. According to various embodiments, the padding may introduce added comfort to the sensitive dorsal side skin. According to various embodiments, the padding may also introduce friction to prevent the finger splint 200 from slipping off the finger in the axial direction. According to various embodiments, the finger splint 200 may include a padding attached to an upper side of each of the at least one volar support portion 216 of the elongate base member 210. The padding may include a sheet of silicon padding. According to various embodiments, the elongate base member 210 may be made of light-weight polymeric materials. For example, the elongate base member 210 may be printed via 3D printing and may be made of flexible 3D printing materials, such as resin and TPU. According to various embodiments, the cover member 220 may be made of light-weight polymeric materials. For example, the cover member 220 may be printed via 3D printing and may be made of flexible 3D printing materials, such as resin and TPU. According to various embodiments, printing the elongate base member 210 and the cover member 220 via 3D printing with flexible 3D printing materials may provide better grip.

[00071] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C show various view of a finger splint 300 in a closed configuration according to various embodiments. FIG. 3D shows an exploded view of the finger splint 300 of FIG. 3 A according to various embodiments. FIG. 3E shows the finger splint 300 of FIG. 3A in an open configuration according to various embodiments.

[00072] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 300 of FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E may contain all the features of the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E. Accordingly, all features, changes, modifications, and variations that are applicable to the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E may also be applicable to the finger splint 300 of FIG. 3 A to FIG. 3E. According to various embodiments, the finger 300 of FIG. 3A to FIG. 3E may, in addition to the features and limitations of the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E, further include the following additional features and/or limitations.

[00073] According to various embodiments, the at least one volar support portion 316 of the elongate base member 310 of the finger splint 300 may include perforations 340. According to various embodiments, the dorsal cover portion 326 of the cover member 320 of the finger splint 300 may include perforations 342.

[00074] FIG. 4A show various a finger splint 400 in an open configuration according to various embodiments. FIG. 4B shows a plan view of the elongate base member 410 of the finger splint 400 of FIG. 4A according to various embodiments. FIG. 4C shows a side view of the elongate base member 410 of FIG. 4B according to various embodiments.

[00075] According to various embodiments, the finger splint 400 of FIG. 4A may contain all the features of the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E. Accordingly, all features, changes, modifications, and variations that are applicable to the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E may also be applicable to the finger splint 400 of FIG. 4A. According to various embodiments, the finger 400 of FIG. 4A may, in addition to the features and limitations of the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E, further include the following additional features and/or limitations.

[00076] According to various embodiments, similar to the finger splint 200 of FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E, the elongate base member 410 of the finger splint 400 of FIG. 4A may include two volar support portions 416a, 416b or two structures for supporting the volar surfaces. The first volar support portion 416a may be disposed towards the first longitudinal end portion 410a of the elongate base member 410 and the second volar support portion 416b may be disposed towards the second longitudinal end portion 410b of the elongate base member 410. Accordingly, the first volar support portion 416a may be configured to support the middle section of the finger, and the second volar support portion 416b may be configured to support the fingertip of the finger. Hence, when the finger splint 400 is worn on the finger, the first volar support portion 416a may extend transversely underneath the middle section of the finger, and the second volar support portion 416b may extend transversely underneath the fingertip of the finger.

[00077] According to various embodiments, an edge 416c the first volar support portion 416a of the elongate base member 410 of the finger splint 400 proximal to the first longitudinal end portion 410a of the elongate base member 410 may be concave or have an inward curving outline. Accordingly, the proximal edge 416c of the first volar support portion 416a of the elongate base member 410 at an extreme end of the elongate base member 410 directed away from the second volar support portion 416b may be concave or may curve inwards. Hence, the proximal edge 416c of the first volar support portion 416a of the elongate base member 410 may form a cove-like profile or an inward curve (rounded) cut. According to various embodiments, the concave proximal edge 416c may prevent abrasion at the proximal interphalangeal joints of the finger.

[00078] Preliminary studies and evaluation of the finger splint according to the various embodiments against a conventional thermoplastic Stack splint has demonstrated that the finger splint of the various embodiments is advantageous over conventional finger splint. For example, the time taken for splint fitting as well as on occupational therapists’ skills may be reduced. With the finger splint according to various embodiments, simple finger measurements can be taken to select the best splint sizing and smaller sizes that match the patients’ uninjured finger of their other hand as a guide to estimate best splint sizing for when their swelling subsides. Further, using the finger splint according to various embodiments, the mallet finger patient may not need to schedule follow-up meeting (which could be up to four times per patient using conventional Stack splint) with the occupational therapists for re-moulding, cutting and re-fitting of the Stack splint. This is due to the modular feature of the finger splint of the various embodiments, which allows the patient to do simple replacement of the cover member of the finger splint independently without the need for follow-up with the occupational therapists. Thus, the patient may avoid additional consultation time and save on treatment costs. The results of the evaluation have also shown that skin maceration or whitening on the skin area beneath the finger splint is less than conventional Stack splint. Further, it is also found that the finger splint according to various embodiments does not shift position or come off. In addition, the finger splint according to various embodiments provides a comfortable fit to the sensitive skin on the dorsal side of the finger due to the padding under the cover member of the finger splint. Accordingly, various embodiments have provided a finger splint with reduced skin maceration and better splint fit which are crucial in ensuring effective maintenance of the patient’s fingertip in full extension or slight hyperextension, as well as improving splinting compliance rates. With effective treatment and good patient compliance, increase in splinting success can be achieved with the finger splint of the various embodiments. [00079] Various embodiments have provided a finger splint with a modular configuration that allow patients to easily replace the dorsal support (or cover member) of a different size for better splint fit, rather than return to occupational therapist for splint remoulding (i.e. remoulding of thermoplastic Stack splint) or re -purchase entire ring-based splints for splint fit. Various embodiments may be porous and cover the skin minimally, allowing the skin and splint to dry more easily. This may reduce the risks of skin maceration, as compared with commonly-used splints, e.g. Stack splint, Zimmer splint and their variants. Various embodiments may be waterproof, hydrophobic and does not contain components that retain moisture, such as Velcro straps or non-elastic tape that are present in Stack and Zimmer splints. Various embodiments may have a hinge and latch mechanism that allows patients to easily remove, clean, dry and secure the splint back onto their fingers, single-handedly. In the various embodiments, there is no need for use of non-elastic tape and tightening of Velcro straps to ensure accurate splint fit, like in Stack and Zimmer splints. In the various embodiments, the hinge and latch mechanism may allow users to apply the splint to their mallet finger in a lateral manner or from the side of the finger. This is unlike the Stack splint or ring-like splints that require patients to thread their injured finger through the splint, which generally increases the discomfort at the region of injury and increases risk of accidentally bending their fingertip in the process. In various embodiments, the dorsal component (or the cover member) may be positioned proximal to the fingertip joint (i.e. proximal to the distal interphalangeal joint). This is unlike the Stack splint, dorsal Zimmer splint and their variants, whereby the vulnerable and sensitive area close to the fingernail bed is in pressure contact with or experiences abrasion with the splint. Various embodiments may be lightweight and have minimal footprint. This is unlike the commonly- used Stack splint and Zimmer splint that are bulky and can be caught in clothes and become cumbersome during activities of daily living. Various embodiments may be low cost. Users can replace just the dorsal component (or the cover member) of the finger splint, instead of purchasing an entirely new splint (i.e. ring-based splints) or making a trip to the occupational therapist for splint remoulding (i.e. thermoplastic Stack splint) that costs more. According to various embodiments, the finger splint may include a light-weight polymeric finger splint base (or the elongate base member) and a light-weight polymeric finger splint strap (or the cover member) lined with a thin sheet of silicon to support the dorsal side of the finger and to act as a securing mechanism to keep the fingertip extended or slightly hyperex tended. According to various embodiment, the finger splint base and the finger splint strap may come in a range of standardized sizes for different finger sizes of adults and children. [00080] While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modification, variation in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The scope of the invention is thus indicated by the appended claims and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced.

Claims

1. A finger splint comprising: an elongate base member having a first longitudinally extending side, a second longitudinally extending side and at least one volar support portion extending between the first longitudinally extending side and the second longitudinally extending side; and a cover member having a first edge, a second edge and a dorsal cover portion extending arcuately between the first edge and the second edge, the first edge and the second edge being opposite edges of the cover member, wherein the first edge of the cover member in engagement with a portion of the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member cooperatively form a hinged joint holding the cover member and the elongate base member together and pivotable about the portion of the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member between an open configuration and a closed configuration in a clam-shell like manner, whereby the second edge of the cover member is pivoted away from the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member in the open configuration and the second edge of the cover member is engaged with the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member in the closed configuration, wherein the second edge of the cover member and the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member are connectable to each other when pivoted to engage with each other.

2. The finger splint as claimed in claim 1, wherein the elongate base member and the cover member are two separate pieces, wherein the first edge of the cover member and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member are detachably connectable to each other to form the hinge joint.

3. The finger splint as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first edge of the cover member comprises a first coupling element and the portion of the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member comprises a second coupling element, wherein the first coupling element and the second coupling element are a pair of protrusion and recess configured to be removably fitted together in a manner so as to be pivotable relative to each other when fitted.

4. The finger splint as claimed in claim 3, wherein the first coupling element comprises a C-shaped clip and the second coupling element comprises a longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance.

5. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the elongate base member comprises a first longitudinal rib along the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member and a second longitudinal rib along the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member.

6. The finger splint as claimed in claim 5, wherein each of the first longitudinal rib and the second longitudinal rib comprises a circular cross-sectional profile.

7. The finger splint as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein each of the first longitudinal rib and the second longitudinal rib comprises a first section and a second section, the second section being angled off a plane containing both the first sections of the first longitudinal rib and the second longitudinal rib.

8. The finger splint as claimed in claim 7, wherein the portion of the first longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member, to which the first edge of the cover member is engaged, is the first section of the first longitudinal rib.

9. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the elongate base member comprises a first volar support portion towards a first longitudinal end portion of the elongate base member and a second volar support portion towards a second longitudinal end portion of the elongate base member, wherein each of the first volar support portion and the second volar support portion extend between the first longitudinal rib and the second longitudinal rib.

10. The finger splint as claimed in claim 9 in combination with claims 7 or 8, wherein the first volar support portion extends between the first sections of the first longitudinal rib and the second longitudinal rib, and wherein the second volar support portion extends between the second sections of the first longitudinal rib and the second longitudinal rib.

11. The finger splint as claimed in claim 9 or 10, wherein the first volar support portion and the second volar support portion are longitudinally spaced apart from each other in a manner such that there is a gap between the first volar support portion and the second volar support portion lengthwise along the elongate base member.

12. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein each of the first volar support portion and the second volar support portion is extending arcuately between the first longitudinal rib and the second longitudinal rib.

13. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the second volar support portion is of an arch shape pointing away from the first volar support.

14. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the second edge of the cover member and a portion of the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member are detachably connectable to each other.

15. The finger splint as claimed in claim 14, wherein the second edge of the cover member comprises a third coupling element and the portion of the second longitudinally extending side of the elongate base member comprises a fourth coupling element, wherein the third coupling element and the fourth coupling element are a pair of protrusion and recess configured to be removably fitted together.

16. The finger splint as claimed in claim 15, wherein the third coupling element comprises a C-shaped clip and the fourth coupling element comprises a longitudinally aligned cylindrical protuberance.

17. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the dorsal cover portion of the cover member is wider in a center and narrower towards the first edge and the second edge.

18. The finger splint as claimed in claim any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising a padding attached to a concave surface of the dorsal cover portion of the cover member.

19. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the dorsal cover portion of the cover member is perforated.

20. The finger splint as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the at least one volar support portion of the elongate base member is perforated.