The Modern Splint: Your Injury's Best Friend
Published: Feb 18, 2024
Discover the different types of splints available today and how they can aid in the healing process of various injuries.
Contents
Meet the Splint Family
Splints come in various forms, from traditional plaster to innovative fiberglass and air splints. Each offers unique benefits. Plaster is great for molding and affordability, while fiberglass is lighter and water-resistant. Air splints, though providing less support, are adjustable and can be ideal for minor injuries.
Choosing the Right Splint
The type of splint used depends on the injury's location and severity. Pre-formed splints are convenient and easy to use but may not offer the same level of support as custom-molded ones. For precise immobilization, custom splints made from plaster or fiberglass are preferable.

New Tech in Splinting
Advancements in splint technology have led to the development of prefabricated splints with air cells or gel components. These are particularly useful for soft tissue injuries and long-term immobilization needs. They provide comfort and support while being easy to remove and adjust.
Frequently Asked Questions
A fiberglass splint is a lightweight, water-resistant splint used for stabilizing injuries.
Custom splints offer better support but are less convenient than pre-formed ones.
Yes, some splints, like air splints, can be adjusted to accommodate swelling.
Pre-formed splints are reusable, but custom ones are typically not.
Wrapping Up
Modern splints provide a flexible, effective way to manage injuries, catering to diverse medical needs.
References
- Geideman J. Orthopedic injuries: General principles. Rosen's Emergency Medicine, Mosby, Philadelphia 2002.
- Klig J. Splinting procedures. Textbook of Pediatric Emergency Procedures, Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore 2008.
- Boyd AS, Benjamin HJ, Asplund C. Principles of casting and splinting. Am Fam Physician 2009; 79:16.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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