Monday, February 2, 2009

Orthopedic Splint Types

Orthopedic splints are used to immobilize different areas and joints of the body, so damaged areas can heal in the best possible way. Reasons for using an orthopedic splint include injuries, physical side effects of illness as well as birth defects and physical abnormalities. There are several different orthopedic splint types, each used in the treatment of specific physical conditions.


Acromioclavicular Splint


The acromioclavicular is also known as a Zimmer splint and is used to immobilize the arm and shoulder area, ensuring the arm and shoulder is rested from normal everyday use. This splint is used after an injury or physical condition has damaged the arm and/or shoulder bones or supporting skeletal muscles and enables the natural healing process to begin with the arm in a rested position, at the front of the body.


Carpal Tunnel Splints


Carpal tunnel splints are used to treat the condition known as carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel occurs in an individual's wrist when the median nerve becomes trapped or inflamed due to another physical condition such as arthritis or an infection as well as excess movement. The median nerve stretches from the forearm to the hand and controls the sensation of the thumb and first three fingers from the thumb. When the median nerve becomes trapped, it is advised to wear a carpal tunnel splint for a period of up to two weeks or more.


Clavicle Splint


The clavicle area of the body


A clavicle splint is also known as a figure eight splint and is used to support the clavicle bone which is also known as the collar bone, located in the shoulder area. The clavicle splint supports the clavicle area after a fracture in the collarbone has occurred, and can also be used to help remedy physical effects of long term bad posture.


Denis Browne Splint


The Denis Browne Splint is used for children with conditions such as congenital talipes equinovarus or clubfoot as well as metatarsus valgus. Congenital talipes equinovarus and metatarsus valgus are birth defect conditions that create an unnatural shape to a child's foot, rendering a child with serious problems that can stop a child from being able to walk. The Denis Browne splint is fitted on to a child's foot and slowly helps in reshaping or created a curve on the underside of the foot or feet.








Finger Splints


Finger splints are used to treat injuries and deformities to the fingers. If a finger is broken or fractured a finger splint supports the distal joint of the finger, ensuring the finger is stabilized in a straight position. Keeping the finger in a straight immobilized position aids in corrective healing.

Tags: also known, Denis Browne, median nerve, splints used, becomes trapped, Browne Splint