splint

1. SPLINT
A splint is a device used for holding a part of the
body stable to decrease pain and prevent further
injury.
A splint is defined as "a rigid or flexible device
that maintains in position a displaced or movable
part; also used to keep in place and protect an
injured part" or as "a rigid or flexible material
used to protect, immobilize, or restrict motion in
a part".

2. USES
 By the emergency medical services or by
volunteer first responders, to temporarily
immobilize a fractured limb before
transportation;
 By allied health professionals such
as occupational
therapists, physiotherapists and orthotics, to
immobilize an articulation (e.g. the knee) that
can be freed while not standing (e.g. during
sleep);
 By athletic trainers to immobilize an injured
bone or joint to facilitate safer transportation of
the injured person.
 By emergency department (ED) physicians to

3. TYPES
 Ankle stirrup – Used for the ankles.
 Finger splints – Used for the fingers. A "mallet" or baseball
finger is a rupture of the extensor tendon and sometimes
including a fracture. While surgery may be necessary such
an injury may heal if placed in a finger splint.
 Nasal splint
 Posterior lower leg
 Posterior full leg
 Posterior elbow
 Sugar tong – Used for the forearm or wrist. They are named
"sugar-tong" due to their long, U-shaped characteristics,
similar to a type of utensil used to pick up sugar cubes.
 Thumb spica – Used for the thumb.
 Ulnar gutter – Used for the forearm to the palm.
 Volar wrist splint – Used for the wrist.
 Wrist/arm splint – Used for the wrist or arm.