A splint is a medical device that allows a part of the body (arm, ankle, wrist, etc.) to be immobilized for the treatment of a fracture or sprain.
Definition: what is a splint?
A splint is a rigid structure generally made of plastic which allows the joint of a part of the body to be immobilizedoften in thes consequences of trauma (shock, blow, fall, false movement) with suspicion of fracture and/or sprain. This medical device can be adapted on the wrist, finger, ankle, knee, arm… The splints come in different sizes and shapes depending on the limb to be immobilized. They are removable and their wearing is temporary.
Photo of a splint
Why use a splint?
In an emergency care context, it has the dual benefit of being both analgesic by reducing pain due to mobilizations, but also of prevent potential bone displacement if there really is a fracture. A splint can also be put on to immobilize a joint in case of sprain, fracture or dislocation. It can be left in place for several days, or even several weeks, for the duration of the healing of the lesion. The splint may also be prescribed in certain cases of rheumatism to put the joint to rest.
The splint may be prescribed by all health professionals (general practitioner, rheumatologist, orthopedic surgeon, etc.), but it is also possible to obtain it without a prescription in pharmacies, on the internet or in certain sporting goods stores.
Thanks to Dr Marc Elkaïm, orthopedic surgeon for his validation.