Which of the following represents a post-surgical indication for using an orthosis?

• A. Ripened skin of palmar surface
• B. Nerve palsy due to radial nerve
• C. Post-surgical conditions
• D. Chronic tendonitis

Answer: (C)

Using an orthosis after surgery is about protecting the healing tissues and stabilizing the joint to allow proper repair and scar formation. The post-surgical situation is the clear indication because immobilization and controlled positioning reduce stress on sutures, grafts, or repaired structures, helping them heal without unnecessary movement. This is exactly what a postoperative orthosis is designed to do: protect the surgical repair, manage swelling, and maintain alignment during early healing.

The other options don’t fit that postoperative purpose. Ripened skin on the palmar surface signals skin integrity issues that require wound care and pressure relief rather than immobilization for healing. Nerve palsy from radial nerve injury is a nerve condition that may require adaptive positioning or supports, but it isn’t specifically about protecting a recent surgical repair. Chronic tendonitis is an inflammatory condition typically managed with rest, therapy, and activity modification rather than a post-surgical immobilization device.