However, splints can also be used to increase motion in astiff joint.
KatarzynaBialasiewicz / Getty Images
What Is a Splint?
In this context, a removable splint is referred to as an orthosis.
KatarzynaBialasiewicz / Getty Images
It can also reduce pain with movement that can occur with chronic conditions.
Finger and toe fractures are also commonly splinted.
Splint vs.
Casts have to be cut with acast sawfor removal.
An emergency medical technician (EMT) might apply a splint in an emergency.
The splint can be secured with a necktie, belt, pieces of cloth, or tape.
However, many times, this isn’t an option.
Summary
Splints are devices temporarily used to immobilize an injured body part while it heals.
They can also be used to increase range of motion in stiff joints.
Splints can help treat fractures, muscle or tendon injuries, nerve compression conditions, and arthritis.
Healthcare professionals typically fit them, but some are available off-the-shelf.
American Society of Hand Therapists.Coding.
Emergency Medicine Residents' Association.Splinting techniques.
2019;7(Suppl 7):S256.
doi:10.21037/atm.2019.06.55
American Society for Surgery of the Hand.What is a custom orthosis?
National Library of Medicine.How to make a splint.
American Academy of Family Physicians.Principles of casting and splinting.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Fractures (broken bones).
National Library of Medicine.Tendon repair.
