What does splinting treat?

A splint can hold a finger, wrist, elbow, shoulder, or toe in a useful position, reducing stress on healing tissue. Unlike a fully enclosed cast, many splints can be adjusted or removed when a clinician says it is safe, which makes skin checks and hygiene easier.

Examples include clavicle fracture support, ligament sprain protection, mallet finger positioning, trigger finger rest, De Quervain's tenosynovitis support, cubital tunnel syndrome night positioning, and turf toe protection. The correct design and wearing schedule depend on the diagnosis.

Follow the prescribed hours and keep straps secure without making them tight. Check the skin and notice whether fingers or toes become pale, blue, cold, numb, or unusually swollen. Keep the splint dry unless its instructions allow washing, and do not alter its shape. Gentle movement of uncovered joints may help prevent stiffness when approved.

Seek prompt advice if pain or swelling increases, the splint rubs or causes a sore, or numbness and tingling do not settle after adjustment. Urgent assessment is needed for a visibly deformed limb, an open injury, a cold or blue digit, or sudden loss of movement or feeling.

What tissue is the splint protecting? How long should I wear it, and may I remove it for washing or exercises? Which changes mean it needs refitting?