What is a thumb spica splint used for?
They are primarily used to secure nonemergency injuries to bones until they can be evaluated by a consultant such as an orthopedic surgeon. They are also used to temporarily immobilize an extremity before surgery (eg, for an open fracture) or to assist in primary healing.
How long should you wear a thumb brace?
How long do you need to wear a thumb brace? A typical treatment time may include wearing a splint for most of the day for 3 to 4 weeks. During this time, you may need to remove the splint several times a day.
How do you clean a thermoplastic splint?
If possible, have someone help wash the splint for you while you gently wash your hand. The splint can be soaked, scrubbed, disinfected or deodorised! Cool soapy water is usually best. Splint and hand should be thoroughly dried before the splint is replaced.
Can you shower with thermoplastic splint?
Your splint is completely waterproof. It is safe to wear while showering, bathing, washing dishes, and even swimming. Any time your splint gets wet it must be removed and dried to avoid your skin becoming soft, soggy and damaged (macerated).
What is thermoplastic splinting?
A thermoplastic splint is a custom-made medical device used to treat orthopaedics problems or rheumatology disorders of the upper limb (fingers, hand and wrist). It can be utilised at all age. It is made of mouldable plastic, adjusted and fitted perfectly to a part of your limb.
Should you wear a thumb spica to bed?
Yes! The thumb brace can be worn while you sleep.
Should I sleep with a thumb brace on?
Should I sleep in my thumb brace? Yes, depending on the condition of your thumb joint. A 2018 research review suggests that continuous use of a thumb brace throughout the day and into the night could be required to properly rest the thumb and make sure it stays in an ergonomic position.
Can I take my splint off to shower?
Tape a sheet of plastic to cover your splint when you take a shower or bath, unless your doctor said you can take it off while bathing. If you can take the splint off when you bathe, pat the area dry after bathing and put the splint back on. If your splint gets a little wet, you can dry it with a hair dryer.
Can I wear a thumb splint to bed?
“If you have had a fall or think you may have fractured your hand or wrist, it is OK to wear a brace overnight until you can get to the doctor’s office,” says Dr. Delavaux. “But be sure to get it checked out, especially if the pain doesn’t get better after a day or two.” Basal joint arthritis.
Can you get a plastic splint wet?
Do not get the splint wet. A wet splint might not support the bone, and also can cause a skin rash.
What is thermoplastic cast?
Thermoplastic splints can be made out of thermoplastic splinting material to support hand, wrist or arm injuries. The material is activated with heat and is custom-fit as it moulds directly onto the patient. The splint can be secured with velcro or taping materials, making it removal for hand hygiene and exercises.