Splint Fabrication

Splints (also referred to as orthotics) are used to support, control, and help heal the injured area of the body. Splints come in all shapes and forms and can be used on areas such as fingers, hands, elbows and shoulders. Splints can be custom made, which means a therapist can make a special splint molded to fit only you. If the splint is not custom made, it will be prefabricated, which means it is a splint designed in mass production by companies made for the general public. It is important that your therapist fully explains his/her evaluation of the particular situation and involves you, the patient, in the design and selection of the splint. The splint should meet a functional requirement so you should be able to use your hand when the splint is on you, as long as this is allowed by your medical doctor and is appropriate for your diagnosis. But also the splint should be fashionably acceptable to you so you will not feel self-conscious when wearing it.