Simple Splint Definition

A splint is a piece of medical equipment used to keep an injured body part from moving and to protect it from any further damage. A splint is often used to stabilize a broken bone while the injured person is taken to the hospital for more advanced treatment. It can also be used if you have a severe strain or sprain in one of your limbs. (Krucik, 2012)

Purposes of splint
PROTECTIVE: Properly position edematous structures Maintain tissue length to prevent soft tissue contractures; ex: prevent stretching of weak muscles due to paralysis Used postoperatively to protect newly repaired structures; ex: fractures, replants, tendons

Purposes of splint (cont.)

Corrective Correct existing deformity: boutonniere, swan neck Substitute for lost active motion; ex: tenodesis splint Aid in maximizing functional use of injured extremity Improve joint alignment; ex: ulnar deviation splint Reduce tone and contracture of a spastic muscle Increase passive joint ROM

Purposes of splint (cont.)

SUPPORTIVE provide symptom relief after injury or overuse Block or transfer power of movement to enhance exercise Rest an inflamed arthritic joint Support a joint or an arch in substitution for weak muscles Support joint to increase extremity function; ex: wrist cock up supports wrist in extension while allowing full ROM of fingers and thumb for grasp and prehension

Splinting Indication
Any open or closed fracture Fracture suspect Joint dislocation

Types of simple splint

Improvisation splint Stick, wood, newspaper, or magazine Conventional splint Universal splint (upper and lower extremity splint)

Basic splint equipment

Splint or spalk Triangle bandage Sterile gauze

First Aid
Care for all wounds first before applying a splint. An injured body part should usually be splinted in the position in which it was found, unless you have been treated by a professional who is a specialist in that area. Find something rigid to use as supports to make the splint such as sticks, boards, or even rolled up newspapers. If none can be found, use a rolled blanket or clothing. An injured body part can also be taped to an uninjured body part in order to prevent it from moving. For example, you can tape an injured finger to the finger next to it to keep it immobile. Extend the splint beyond the injured area in order to keep it from moving. In general, try to include the joint above and below the injury in the splint. Secure the splint with ties (belts, cloth strips, neckties, etc.), or tape above and below the injury (make sure the knots are not pressing on the injury). Avoid over-tightening which can cut off the circulation. Check the area of the injured body part frequently for swelling, paleness, or numbness. If necessary, loosen the splint. Seek professional medical attention. Do not change the position of, or realign, an injured body part. Be careful when you place a splint to avoid causing more injuries. Be sure to pad the splint well to avoid putting extra pressure on the injured limb. If the injury is more painful after placing the splint, remove the splint and seek medical assistance immediately. (Benjamin, 2013)