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Glossary

Splint

A custom-moulded support that holds part of the body — usually the hand or wrist — in a specific position for healing or function.

A splint is a custom-made support, usually formed from low-temperature thermoplastic, designed to immobilise, protect, or reposition a joint. Hand therapists use splints after tendon repair, carpal tunnel release, fractures, burns, and in managing rheumatoid arthritis or cerebral palsy. A splint is not a plaster cast: it is lightweight, removable for exercise or hygiene, and adjusted as the tissue heals. Splints fall into two broad categories — static (no moving parts, pure immobilisation) and dynamic (with springs, elastics or hinges that apply controlled motion). Fitting is done by a hand-trained OT or certified hand therapist; a badly fitted splint can cause pressure sores or slow healing.