Note about Hand Splinting

HAND SPLINTING

 Definition:

A splint is a rigid or flexible orthotic device that positions injured part or affected body part in position and protect an injured part to support healing and to prevent further damage.

Purpose of splinting:

• Immobilization
• Support to promote healing
• Positioning or supporting during function
• Pain relief
• Substitute for weak muscles
• Correction and prevention of contracture & deformity
• Restoring or maintaining of range of motion
• Edema control

Classification:

Splints are classified based on the movement permissible as: 

• Static
• Dynamic
• Serial static
• Static progressive

Advantages of splinting:

Splint use offers many advantages overcasting.

• Splints are faster and easier to apply.
• They may be static (i.e., prevent motion) or dynamic (i.e., functional; assist with controlled motion).
• Because a splint is noncircumferential, it allows for the natural swelling that occurs during the initial inflammatory phase of the injury.
• A splint may be removed more easily than a cast, allowing for regular inspection of the injury site
• Aids in carrying out exercises 
• Aids in preventing muscle wasting as well as deformities

Common principles of splinting:

1. Anatomical principle
2. Fit Principle
3. Construction principle
4. Design principle
5. Other principle

Materials:

1. Aluminium(Strip/Sheet)
2. Thermoplast
3. Aquaplast
4. High Temp/Low Temp
5. Leather 
6. Rubber straps

DR KRISHNA NS 
Consultant Occupational Therapist and
Hand Splinting