Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition that affects the hands, leading to stiffness, swelling, and joint contractures. Skin tightening and collagen buildup limit hand function, making daily tasks difficult. Research highlights that early intervention with conservative management can help maintain hand function and slow disease progression.

The Metaflex Glove, offering strengthening, compression, heat retention, and passive digit stretching, aligns with these principles and is PDAC-approved for conservative hand therapy. Medical professionals can bill L-Code 3912, making it a reimbursable option for patients.

The Metaflex Glove Supports Scleroderma Management

Compression for Swelling Reduction

Swelling and fluid retention in the hands are common early symptoms of scleroderma. Persistent edema may not be visible to the naked eye and is a strong predictor of current and future disability.

The Metaflex Glove provides gentle compression to:

• Reduce swelling and fluid buildup.
• Prevent tissue hardening for better flexibility.
• Improve circulation, especially for those with Raynaud’s.

Research supports that compression therapy reduces swelling and pain, improving hand function. By maintaining consistent compression, the Metaflex Glove helps preserve finger mobility.

Passive Stretching to Prevent Contractures

Scleroderma often leads to joint contractures, especially in the proximal interphalangeal joints. Early, frequent stretching is essential for maintaining range of motion.

The Metaflex Glove’s built-in extension bands:

• Gently stretch fingers to maintain flexibility.
• Counteract flexion contractures, keeping fingers straighter.
• Encourage gradual extension, aiding in reaching in preparation for gripping and fine motor tasks.

Low-load, prolonged stretching is more effective than short, aggressive stretches. The Metaflex Glove provides gradual, sustained extension, making it ideal for scleroderma hand therapy.

Heat Retention for Soft Tissue Flexibility

Scleroderma patients often experience cold intolerance and stiffness, especially in the morning. Heat therapy enhances circulation and softens connective tissue, improving flexibility.

The Metaflex Glove’s fabric:

• Increases circulation, reducing Raynaud’s episodes.
• Softens the skin, enhancing stretching effectiveness.
• Provides warmth, easing stiffness and pain.

Studies show that combining heat with stretching significantly improves hand function. By keeping hands warm, the Metaflex Glove enhances compression and stretching benefits.

Grip Strengthening with Resisted Bands

Scleroderma can lead to weakness in the hands, affecting grip strength and daily function. Strengthening exercises are essential to maintaining hand dexterity and preventing loss of function.

The Metaflex Glove’s resisted bands:

• Provide resistance for grip strengthening exercises.
• Help improve finger flexor strength.
• Support functional hand use for gripping, pinching, and holding objects.
• Encourage active movement, complementing passive stretching and compression therapy.

Incorporating grip strengthening alongside stretching and compression ensures a more comprehensive approach to hand function preservation.

Billing the Metaflex Glove Under L-Code 3912

Reimbursement for Healthcare Providers

As of March 6, 2025, the Metaflex Glove is PDAC-approved, allowing therapists and medical professionals to bill L-Code 3912 for reimbursement.

How Providers Can Use L-Code 3912:

To bill L-codes, providers must have a valid National Provider Identifier (NPI) and be enrolled as Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) suppliers through Medicare or relevant third-party payers.

✔ Bill insurance, Medicare, or third-party payers for the Metaflex Glove. ✔ Provide custom fitting and training for effective use. ✔ Prescribe the glove as part of a comprehensive hand rehab program.

With insurance reimbursement, more patients can access the Metaflex Glove without financial barriers.

Using the HAMIS Assessment to Track Hand Function

The Hand Mobility in Scleroderma (HAMIS) assessment is a standardized tool used to evaluate hand function in individuals with scleroderma. It measures nine key movements, including finger flexion, extension, and thumb abduction, providing a quantifiable score that helps track progression and treatment effectiveness.

How HAMIS Supports Metaflex Glove Use

✔ Establishes a baseline for hand function before starting therapy. ✔ Monitors improvements in flexibility, grip strength, and range of motion. ✔ Guides therapy adjustments by identifying areas needing more targeted intervention. ✔ Demonstrates effectiveness of conservative treatments, including the Metaflex Glove.

Clinicians can use HAMIS scores alongside range-of-motion measurements and functional assessments to fine-tune treatment plans and support insurance reimbursement for therapeutic interventions like the Metaflex Glove.

Interested in incorporating the Metaflex Glove as part of a comprehensive care plan?

The Metaflex Glove is a clinically supported, insurance-covered tool for managing scleroderma hands. Get started today with MetaFlex!