Common Splints and What they’re used for
Common Splints Used for Hand Injuries
When it comes to hand injuries, splints are often prescribed to provide support, immobilization, and protection to the affected area. These splints play a crucial role in promoting healing, reducing pain, and preventing further damage. In this article, we will discuss some of the most commonly used splints for hand injuries.
1. Thumb Spica Splint: The thumb spica splint is designed to immobilize the thumb and wrist joint. It is often used for conditions like thumb sprains, fractures, arthritis, and tendonitis. This splint is made of a lightweight material that allows for ease of movement in the fingers while providing stability to the injured area.
2. Wrist Cock-Up Splint: The wrist cock-up splint is used to support the wrist joint while keeping it in a neutral or slightly extended position. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist sprains, tendonitis, and mild fractures. This type of splint helps to reduce pain and swelling while allowing some degree of hand function.
3. Finger Splints: Finger splints are used to immobilize and protect individual fingers. They are commonly used for fractures, dislocations, and injuries to the finger joints. These splints come in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different finger injuries. Finger splints can be customized to fit the specific needs of the patient and provide targeted support to the injured area.
4. Resting Hand Splint: A resting hand splint is designed to immobilize the entire hand, including the wrist, thumb, and fingers. It is often used for neurological conditions, arthritis, and burns. The resting hand splint helps to reduce pain, minimize swelling, and promote healing by keeping the hand in a functional resting position.
5. Dynamic Extension Splints: Dynamic extension splints are commonly used for conditions like extensor and flexor tendon repair, which are often caused by traumatic injuries. These custom-fabricated splints are designed to keep the repaired tendon in a shorted position while toeing the fine line between preventing rupture, stiffness, and promoting movement. They can also be used to nerve palsies - such as radial nerve palsy, which causes an inability to extend the wrist or fingers.
It is important to note that splints should always be prescribed and fitted by a medical professional or a certified hand therapist. Proper use and regular adjustments are necessary to ensure optimal healing and prevent complications. Compliance with wearing the splint as instructed is crucial to maximizing patient outcome and prevent injury.
