Functional splint

Types of Functional Splint

Functional splints are used to fix and give support to the bones of a person who is hurt or has a health problem, especially in the arms, wrists, and hands. They enable health care practitioners to give care to patients with acute and chronic injuries, fractures, or other musculoskeletal problems. There are many types of functional splints, and here are some based on the materials used:

Elasticated Foam Splint

The elasticated foam splint is a common functional splint with a layer of highly elastic foam. The splints are soft, malleable, and well-fitting. Since their edges are soft and can barely irritate the skin, they are very comfortable to wear. They do not weigh much and come in various thicknesses to provide different levels of support. Elasticated foam splints are ideal for low-risk patients or temporary use and are often used in primary care, home care services, or for patients recovering from minor injuries.

Metal/Wireframe Splints

Metal splints are highly durable and sterilisable, enabling long-term use. Mostly, they have a wireframe design and can be covered by other materials to enhance comfort; hence, users get the strength of metal with the added comfort of soft coverings. Wireframe splints are heavy-duty and also lightweight, allowing them to be used by people who need strong support. They offer great stability for post-operative rehabilitation and injuries. In general, metal splints are appropriate for more severe cases where extra support is required.

Thermoplastic based Splint

Thermoplastic splints are solid and fixed forms splints used in functional splinting. They are made from thermoplastic materials like polyethylene, which can be shaped by heating and moulding to a specific body part. One significant advantage of thermoplastic splints is that they can be remoulded, making them highly useful in treatment for changing conditions. People who have had stroke-related hemiplegia, neurological disorders, or arthritis frequently use these splints to correct posture and provide support for rehabilitation.

Elasticated Fabric Splint

Elasticated fabric splints combine woven elastic fibres into a design to support easy stretching and compression movements. Since they provide even distribution and graduated compression, these splints help lower swelling while enhancing circulation to the limbs, which is very important for recovery. Elasticated fabric splints are simple to apply and remove, allowing quick adjustments. Thus, they are useful in first aid, outpatient rehabilitation, or conditions that require support but still allow freedom of movement. Multi-use elasticated fabric splints are also sold, making them even more useful for users.

Durability and maintenance of Operational Splint

Functional splints are an important aspect of both immediate treatment and rehabilitation in a healthcare setting. They are designed durably, with careful consideration given to the materials and increased usage, which significantly impacts their longevity. Hence, durability and maintenance are paramount for operational splints due to cost considerations and the requirements for patient care.

• Material Quality: The material used in the splint mainly determines its strength and durability. Elasticated foam splints were made from quality, durable foams that hardly crack or wear out with frequent use. Most metal splints use premium-grade steel or aluminium alloy wire frames since they are strong, rust-resistant, and can last years in high-demand clinical environments. Thermoplastic splints have solid heat-resistant polymers that retain shape and function for a long time even with constant remoulding.
• Resistance to Environmental Factors: Functional splints are resistant to and made to bear themselves against several environmental conditions, such as moisture, extreme temperatures, and disinfectants. For example, metal splints are often therrnoplastic to resist chemical corrosion from disinfectants used in healthcare settings. Thermoplastic splints are made of materials that can withstand constant heating and cooling. High-quality water-resistant elasticated fabric splints can last longer when regularly washed and cared for in clinical settings.
• Impact Absorption: Some functional splints, like thermoplastic and elasticated fabric splints, absorb impacts, which increases their overall durability. These splints often come with padded linings or cushions within the design that can absorb shocks, reducing wear and tear when splints are subjected to impact or stress during daily activities.
• Edge and Surface Durability: The durability of the surface and the edge of a splint are very significant, as they affect the splint's commercial use and comfort level. Elasticated foam splints have non-irritating edges that do not harden, while most metal splints have well-groomed edges to avoid skin irritation and have a smooth surface that does not catch dust, rust, or stain easily.

Maintenance of Operational Splint

Functional splint durability is closely tied to effective maintenance. Moreover, it's been noted that in clinical settings, the splint's lifespan is closely related to the degree of care that is afforded to it. Routine care keeps operational splints functioning optimally, therefore preventing the need for replacement.

• Cleaning Protocols: Following strict cleaning behaviours is vital in preserving operational splint integrity, mainly because the splints have to be exposed to bodily secretions, disinfectant chemicals, and dust. Thermoplastic and wireframe metal splints can usually be cleaned with alcohol wipes or disinfectant, while most elasticated fabric splints are washed in a mild detergent and water, then air-dried. Machine washing and drying of elasticated fabric splints, in particular, should be avoided, as it is likely to reduce their lifespan through loss of elasticity.
• Storage Conditions: Proper storage helps maintain the shape and integrity of splints, especially thermoplastic and elasticated fabric types. Functional splints should be kept in a cool, dry, dust-free location, away from direct sunlight, as heat exposure may affect the material properties. Thermoplastic splints should be stored flat or in a manner that prevents warping, while elasticated fabric splints can be rolled or folded without tension to maintain their elasticity. Bin stands are specifically designed to ensure that different categories of splints are kept neatly organised and easily accessible.
• Regular Inspections: Besides the cleaning, storage, and preservation behaviours, it is ideal to carry out frequent checks on the splints for signs of wear and tear since operational splints have typically been used in clinics. Elasticated foam splints should be checked for signs of fraying or visible wear, while frequent exposure thermoplastic and metal splints should be exposed to heat-induced changes or bending. Elasticated fabric splints should be taken and observed for thin or worn-out patches. Changes in splint integrity or functionality should be replaced as appropriate to maintain patient safety.

Scenarios for operational splint

Operational splints are required in various conditions, from emergencies to long-term rehabilitation. After an injury, someone may need a splint as a transition space before they receive more care. In most cases, splints are often used in the rehabilitation stages to enable recovery completely. Knowing where operational splints can be used helps take the right approach to fix an injury so that the right operational splint is applied based on the injury.

Emergency Medical and First Aid Applications

Functional splints are applied in emergency medical cases, especially in first aid cases, where they offer provisional skeletal support for people with broken limbs while waiting for more intensive care. In accidents, first responders use elasticated foam splints, which are light and can be fixed quickly and efficiently, allowing good immobilisation and minimal disturbance to the injured area. In cases where the injury is suspected to be more severe and needs extra support, metal or thermoplastic splints can be applied. These splints are essential during situations where the victim's life is endangered, and there is a continual need to relieve pain and avoid further injury.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Splints are also important in the recovery time after surgery, particularly surgeries involving bones and joints, like hip or knee replacements and fracture repair. In these cases, a wireframe or thermoplastic splint is commonly employed to support the surgical site and maintain stability. Post-operative rehabilitation involves gradually returning the body to normal activity, but during this process, splints can help prevent contractures, which are abnormal tightening of the skin, muscles, and other associated tissues.

Chronic Condition Management

Functional splints are usually employed to help manage chronic musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders such as arthritis, cerebral palsy, or muscular dystrophy. Thermoplastic or elasticated fabric splints are commonly used in these cases since they allow for a more comfortable longer-term support while aiding in the reduction of pain and swelling. For example, in arthritis, splints can help the joints stay in position, reducing pain and swelling. People with cerebral palsy have to keep their hands and feet in the right position, so they often use thermoplastic splints. These splints help prevent tightening, which can cause problems for people with these conditions.

Alignment and Correction

In orthopaedic care, operational splints are applied to realign or correct the positioning of body parts, particularly in the case of deformities or after prolonged immobilisation. Craniofacial deformities, scoliosis, and clubfoot corrections are among these planned and postnatal splints. Thermoplastic splints are usually designed to shape them according to the required alignment over some time gently. They are preferred mainly because they are less painful and allow for gradual correction, unlike more aggressive methods, which include surgical intervention.

How To Choose The Functional Splint

Choosing a clinic splint for business means weighing the factors that influence operational splint efficacy against cost considerations. Striking this balance incorporates practical aspects of splint functionality, durability, and ease of use.

• Material and Durability: Elasticated foam splints are cheap compared to fabric splints; hence, they are disposable and ideal for short-term use or emergencies. However, they can be costly if used for a longer time because they will have to be replaced frequently. Metal splints are more expensive but worth it because they last long and are ideal for large hospitals. Thermoplastic splints are flexible and cheap, as they can be moulded and reused.
• Weight and Portability: Wireframe and metal splints are strong but very light, which makes them portable. Elasticated fabric splints can easily be rolled into compact size Splint Packs to make them portable. Thermoplastic splints are moulded on the site and, therefore, one-time use unless they are stored properly to prevent warping.
• Cost Considerations: Cost also plays a very important role in deciding what kind of splint to use in what condition. Elasticated foam splints can be cheaper for short-term use, but if they've got to be used over a longer period, you'll have to get some metal or thermoplastic splints that are more robust and probably more expensive. Custom metal splints offer the highest levels of strength and are ideal for patients who have long-term injuries but are expensive; they are mostly used in clinics.
• Ease of Application and Removal: Elasticated foam and fabric splints are easy to apply and remove, making them suitable for emergency care, outpatient treatment, or first aid. Thermoplastic splints require moulding, which makes them unsuitable in fast-paced environments but ideal where custom fit and adjustments are needed. Wireframe metal splints provide a secure, durable fit but may require more time for application and adjustments, making them less suitable for acute care settings.
• Adjustability vs. Fixed Designs: Custom wireframe metal splints offer adjustability and are perfect for long-term rehabilitation of growing patients or those with chronic conditions. Thermoplastic splints are moulded to fit closely, providing a fixed, custom fit that is ideal for specific injuries. Elasticated foam splints offer limited adjustability but can be modified easily to accommodate swelling or minor changes in injury conditions. Again, this factor is vital to consider, especially after traumatic injuries that require constant monitoring and assessment for further changes.

Q&A

Q1: What is a functional splint used for?

A1: A functional splint serves to support and stabilize injured body parts, allowing for some mobility while protecting the injured area. They are widely used in rehabilitation to help patients recover from injuries, especially in the limbs, by supporting damaged tissues and enabling functional use of the affected part during the healing process.

Q2: How long should a splint be worn?

A2: The duration for wearing a splint varies depending on the type of injury and individual healing rates. It can range from a few days for minor injuries to several weeks or months for fractures or severe ligament damage. A healthcare professional should be consulted to determine the appropriate length of time based on specific recovery needs.

Q3: What is the difference between a splint and a brace?

A3: The main difference between a splint and a brace lies in their functions and designs. A splint is usually a single, stationary piece of material that restricts movement in an injured area, primarily used for immobilization. In contrast, a brace is a more complex device designed to provide support, stabilization, and, in many cases, limited mobility to allow for some functional use of the injured part while still offering protection.

Q4: Can a splint be applied at home?

A4: In certain cases, a splint can effectively be applied at home, particularly for minor injuries such as sprains, mild fractures, or soft tissue injuries. However, it's very important to seek medical guidance for more serious injuries and consult the doctor to ensure the proper type of splint is used for the injury.

Q5: Can a functional splint be reused?

A5: Yes, a functional splint can be reused. Functional splints work well for short-term use with different patients and situations. They should be cleaned and adjusted for new patients or injuries to keep working well each time.