Your wrists allow you to perform many things, like write, grab, or anything that gets your hand moving. It’s considered that the wrist is one of the body parts often splinted due to an injury, just like a fracture.
When you experience a wrist fracture, recovery often involves using a wrist splint. A splint is essential in healing by stabilizing the affected area, restricting movement, and aiding in pain management. Depending on the severity and type of fracture, a splint can be used either as a temporary solution before casting or as the primary treatment method throughout the healing period.
Types of Wrist Splints for Fractures
When dealing with a wrist fracture, selecting the right wrist splint is crucial to ensure proper healing and support. Here, let’s discuss the common types of wrist splints you may encounter or use during recovery.
Volar Wrist Splint
This splint is designed to immobilize your wrist while allowing finger movement. It extends from the forearm to the palm and is typically used for stable wrist or forearm fractures.
You can check out the FEATOL Wrist Brace to try out how a volar wrist splint works out for you. It is made of foam and polyester, which makes it comfortable, breathable, and durable. You can also adjust its compression and stabilization making it ideal for addressing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, arthritis, and sprains.
- Please double check to ensure your choice is correct for your right hand or left hand, and refer to the size chart for a proper fit
- Perfect Customer Service:If you are unhappy with your wrist brace, please do not hesitate to contact us. We value our customers and want each person to be 100% satisfied. You have nothing to lose but the pain you're suffering!
- Major Upgrade: A Removable Aluminum Plamer Stay and Two Fixed Plastic Splints Provide High Level of Wrist Support
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Effective support for wrist conditions Adjustable compression for personalized fit Comfortable design for extended wear | May limit wrist mobility Challenges in size adjustment Not suitable for wet conditions |
Thumb Spica Splint
Used specifically for scaphoid or thumb fractures, the thumb spica splint immobilizes your thumb and wrist. It wraps around the thumb and extends along the forearm, offering targeted support.
The Mueller Adjust-to-Fit Thumb Stabilizer is a good option you can try out. It’s designed to alleviate discomfort associated with various thumb conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis, and sprains. It has adjustable straps and comes with a customizable metal splint, making it feel that it’s perfectly made for you. The ergonomic design offers stability while allowing mobility, promoting healing and comfort during everyday activities.
- EASY TO USE: 3 adjustable straps allow for easy sliding onto the hand and tightening to your comfort level, stays in place during activity, fits right or left
- COMFORTABLE: Support and comfortability combined into a thumb stabilizer, for adults dealing with soft tissue injuries, thumb sprains, gamekeeper's thumb, osteoarthritis, De Quervain's Tenosynovitis, and more
- TARGETED COMPRESSION: 2 rigid stays, one on each side of the thumb, intended to limit movement and provide maximum support
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Provides effective support and stabilization Adjustable straps for personalized compression Breathable and lightweight design | Some users may find the fit not optimal May restrict thumb mobility during certain activities Not suitable for severe or complex thumb injuries |
Ulnar Gutter Splint
An ulnar gutter splint is used to stabilize fractures of the ulna or the pinkie side of the hand and wrist. It may also include the ring finger if needed for additional immobilization.
The Vive Boxer Finger Splint might be the best choice for an ulnar gutter splint. Not only is it lightweight and has breathable materials like neoprene so it’s easy to wear all throughout the day. It is also adjustable, fitting almost every finger size and hand.
- STABILIZING SUPPORT FOR THE HAND: Providing exceptional support, the Vive boxer splint immobilizes the ring and pinky finger following fractures or other injuries to promote natural healing. The adjustable metacarpal brace is ideal for post-surgery, finger injuries and fractures in the fourth and fifth metacarpal, allowing for use of the thumb and remaining fingers to complete everyday tasks.
- ADJUSTABLE SPLINTS FOR EASY POSITIONING: Made with a malleable aluminum, the Vive boxer brace includes two removable splints to stabilize injured hands. Each splint is bendable so the injured hand is positioned for optimal healing and greater comfort.
- PERSONALIZED FIT: Easily adjusting to fit most adult hand sizes, the boxer fracture splint is reversible for use on the left or right hand as needed. The splint is secured with three easy-pull fastener straps that are easy to adjust for a comfortable, yet secure fit.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Provides essential support for finger injuries Adjustable design accommodates various finger sizes Lightweight and breathable materials for comfort | May feel bulky or restrictive for some users Limited mobility for the injured finger during wear Not suitable for all types of finger injuries |
Sugar Tong Splint
Shaped like a sugar tong, this splint wraps over the top of your forearm and wrist and then underneath, creating a U-shaped support. It is ideal for wrist and forearm fractures that require immobilized rotation. If you’re familiar with muscle tape, the product for doing a sugar tong splint is similar to that.
The Ever Ready First Aid Universal Aluminum Splint is a reliable medical device designed for stabilizing and immobilizing limb injuries, particularly fractures to arms and legs. Its made from lightweight yet durable aluminum.
- SUPPORT AND STRENGTH - Treat injured and fractured limbs with this lightweight and flexible splint.
- CONVENIENT SIZE - Rolled splints are much more easy to store and transport than a planular design. The unrolled split measures 24" x 4", but when rolled up it only takes up significantly less space. The roll is only 4" x 2.5" and can easily be stored in backpacks, first aid kits, or vehicles.
- SUPERIOR ALUMINUM INTERIOR - The aluminum core housed between the outer foam shell is substantially lighter and more flexible than other plaster or fiberglass splits, and is also radiolucent, allowing Xrays to be performed without having to remove the splint.
| What We Like: | What We Don’t Like: |
Lightweight yet durable aluminum construction Versatile and can be shaped to fit different limbs Provides rigid support for immobilizing fractures | May require some training or knowledge for proper application Limited availability of sizes may not suit all users Bulkiness may be uncomfortable for some users |
- Splinting Guidelines:
- Check for a proper fit to prevent excessive movement.
- Monitor for signs of circulation issues such as numbness or excessive swelling.
- Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on wear duration and activity levels while using the splint.
For detailed guidance, including indications and proper application techniques, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the NCBI Bookshelf offer comprehensive overviews. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the best splint type for your specific fracture.
How to Get the Right Wrist Splint
When dealing with a wrist fracture, selecting a wrist splint that offers adequate support while also being comfortable is crucial for proper healing.
Material and Design
The materials used in wrist splints vary, with some being made of breathable fabrics that ensure comfort during extended use, whereas others employ more rigid materials for greater support. It’s important to consider your type of injury: soft materials are good for mild support, while rigid designs better immobilize the wrist for more serious fractures.
Custom-Fit vs. Off-the-Shelf
You have the option between custom-fit and off-the-shelf wrist splints. Custom-fit splints are tailored to the contours of your specific wrist shape, providing a snug fit that can better stabilize your injury. However, they can be more expensive. On the other hand, off-the-shelf splints are readily available and can be more budget-friendly.
Comfort and Compliance Factors
Comfort is paramount: if a splint is uncomfortable, you are less likely to wear it as instructed. Look for padded linings and adjustable straps that allow you to modify the fit to maximize your comfort. Additionally, consider the ease of putting on and taking off the splint, as this will affect your overall adherence to wearing it. Your daily activities should also influence your selection; you must balance support and functional use of your hand.
Application of Wrist Splints
Applying a wrist splint correctly ensures proper healing and mobility when you have a wrist fracture. The duration of wear and regular maintenance are critical components for the effectiveness of the splint.
Fitting a Splint Properly
Your wrist splint should fit snugly yet comfortably, supporting the wrist in a neutral position. The splint must immobilize the fractured area while allowing for slight movement of the fingers. Adjust the straps to avoid circulation issues or skin irritation.
Duration of Wear
Typically, you need to wear the wrist splint for several weeks, but the exact time frame depends on the nature of your fracture. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully—the splint is vital for maintaining alignment and ensuring the bones heal correctly. Overuse or premature discontinuation can result in delayed or improper healing.
Splint Care and Maintenance
To make your splint comfortable, keep it clean and dry to prevent skin issues or odor. If your splint is removable, clean the affected area and the splint as per the care guidelines. Consult your healthcare provider if it’s non-removable and becomes wet or soiled. Avoid alterations to the splint structure that could compromise its integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you’re dealing with a wrist fracture, using the right support is crucial for healing. A wrist splint can offer the stability and protection your fracture needs. Here, we answer some common questions to help you make informed decisions about wrist splint usage for fractures.
How do I choose the best wrist splint for a fracture?
Selecting a wrist splint depends on the type and severity of your fracture. A distal radius fracture requires a splint that supports and immobilizes your wrist. Consulting with your healthcare provider is the best way to find a suitable splint.
Should my child use a special wrist splint for their fracture?
Yes, children require specially sized wrist splints that cater to their smaller anatomy. These splints must be comfortable, adjustable for growth, and provide appropriate immobilization for effective healing.
Is it better to use a splint or a cast for a broken wrist?
Both splints and casts have their place in treating a broken wrist. Splints are often used initially due to swelling and might be preferred for less severe fractures. Casts, on the other hand, are typically used for more stable fracture fixation once the swelling has decreased.
What should be done for a wrist fracture after cast removal?
After cast removal, gradually increasing wrist mobility and strength is essential. A removable wrist brace may be recommended to support during this transition period.
What are the recommended therapies for wrist fracture recovery?
Physical therapy is commonly recommended to restore strength and range of motion. Specific exercises and treatments will depend on the individual’s progress and could include wrist splint usage as support during recovery exercises.
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Disclaimer: Last update on 2024-07-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
This content is provided solely for educational reasons and should not be seen as medical guidance. It’s important to consult with a healthcare expert prior to making any changes to your health regimen, including dietary adjustments or the use of supplements.
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