New Memory-Metal splint aims to loosen stiff fingers
NCT ID NCT06716086
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested a new type of finger splint made with shape memory alloy—a smart metal that gently and continuously corrects stiff finger joints. Twenty adults with finger stiffness were split into two groups: one used the new splint at home, the other did standard stretching exercises. Researchers measured finger movement and hand function before, at 4 weeks, and at 8 weeks to see which approach worked better.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- shape memory alloy-based orthosis
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a more effective, comfortable option for improving finger movement and daily hand use in people with joint stiffness.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early-stage trial with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The device is still experimental and may not outperform standard stretching.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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20 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Mar 2025
- Finished
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May 2026
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 to 79 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * 18-79 years old * Exhibit limitations in passive range of motion of the proximal interphalangeal joint, with extension less than 0 degrees or flexion less than 90 degrees. * Beyond the acute phase of the hand condition, and it has been more than 8 weeks post-surgery (or post-injury). Exclusion Criteria: * Concurrently use other types of splints for PIP joint stiffness. * Present with abnormal muscle tone, paralysis, or rigidity associated with central or peripheral nervous system dysfunction. * Suffer from complex regional pain syndrome or progressive degenerative disease affecting finger joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis. * Have an active infection or arthritis in their fingers. * Unable to follow instructions.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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National Cheng-Kung University Hospital
Tainan, Taiwan, 704, Taiwan