Table of Contents
Which is better splint or cast?
Splints, also known as half-casts, provide less support than casts, but are faster and easier to use. They also can be tightened or loosened easily if the swelling in the arm or leg increases or decreases. Ready-made or off-the-shelf splints are available in many different sizes and shapes.
Do splints heal fractures?
Splints hold bones and joints in place so they can heal after a fracture (broken bone), injury, or surgery. Splints also can help with conditions that affect the joints (such as arthritis) or muscles (such as palsies, which are weakness or paralysis of a muscle).
What are the four different types of splints?
Splints for Upper Extremity
| Region | Type of Splint |
|---|---|
| Thumb, First Metacarpal, and Carpal Bones | Thumb Spica Splint |
| Finger Injuries | Buddy Taping Aluminium U-shaped Splint Dorsal Extension-block Splint Mallet Finger Splint Mallet finger splint |
| Wrist / Hand | Volar/dorsal forearm splint Short arm cast |
| Forearm | Single Sugar-tong Splint |
Which splint is used for fracture?
Commonly Used Splints and Casts
| Area of injury | Type of splint |
|---|---|
| Forearm/wrist | Volar/dorsal forearm, single sugar-tong |
| Elbow/forearm | Long arm posterior, double sugar-tong |
| Knee | Posterior knee, off-the-shelf immobilizer |
| Tibia/fibula | Posterior ankle (mid-shaft and distal fractures), bulky Jones |
How long can a splint stay on?
A splint usually stays on for several days to weeks. If the injured area is very swollen, a splint may be used first to allow for that swelling. If you need a cast, your doctor will remove the splint and apply a cast. Casts that are kept in good condition can stay on for several weeks.
What is the purpose of splints?
The main indications for splinting are to temporarily immobilize a limb for pain and spasm, to decrease swelling, and to minimize further potential soft-tissue or neurovascular injuries associated with contusions, sprains, lacerations, fractures, dislocations, or painful joints due to inflammatory disorders.
What is the purpose of a splint?
A splint is a supportive device that protects a broken bone or injury. A splint keeps the injured part of your body still to help with pain and promote healing. Some splints are flexible and some are rigid.
How long should a splint stay on?
How long do you have to wear a splint?
You may need to wear a splint for different lengths of time. If your tendon is only stretched, not torn, it should heal in 4 to 6 weeks if you wear a splint all the time. If your tendon is torn or pulled off the bone, it should heal in 6 to 8 weeks of wearing a splint all the time.
How do you use a cast splint?
Apply a bandage, gauze, or cloth. Gently place the splint to lie on the joint above the injury and the joint below it. Secure the splint but only fasten it tight enough to hold the body part still—do NOT cut off the person’s circulation.
Why do splints hurt?
If the skin becomes red or sore around the edge of the splint, you may pad the edges with a soft material, such as moleskin, or use tape to cover the edges. If you’re allowed to take your splint off, be sure your skin is dry before you put it back on. Be careful not to put the splint on too tightly.