WHO
Also written as: WHO — Wrist-Hand Orthosis
Acronym for Wrist-Hand Orthosis, a device that immobilises or supports the wrist and hand, used in rehabilitation after stroke, nerve injury, or surgery.
Full Definition
A Wrist-Hand Orthosis (WHO) is an orthotic device designed to support, immobilise, or functionally position the wrist and hand. In clinical and editorial contexts, WHO should always be defined on first use, as the same acronym is also used for the World Health Organisation, creating significant ambiguity in medically adjacent documents. Orthotic WHOs are frequently prescribed for conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome, radial nerve palsy, and post-surgical rehabilitation. Editors must verify context carefully to determine which expansion applies whenever the acronym appears without a preceding definition. Some style guides recommend spelling out 'Wrist-Hand Orthosis' in full throughout clinical orthotics documents to avoid confusion entirely.
Usage
Usage note: Define on first use in every document. Given the conflict with World Health Organisation, some house styles prefer to spell out 'Wrist-Hand Orthosis' in full throughout orthotics documents.
In Context
- "The occupational therapist recommended a WHO to maintain the wrist in a neutral position during sleep." — Occupational therapy referral letter
- "Editors must confirm that 'WHO' in orthotic discharge summaries refers to Wrist-Hand Orthosis and not the World Health Organisation." — Editorial style guide