Hand splints are metal or plastic devices designed to securely hold the hand, wrist, or fingers in a position that will help facilitate the healing process. A hand splint may be used in the event of an injury or when some type of medical condition threatens to impair the function of the hand. Different types of hand splints are used, depending on the type of health problem the patient is currently experiencing.
Sometimes referred to as a hand or wrist splint, a hand splint is often employed as a means of preventing further damage to the hand while healing takes place. At the same time, the particular design of the splint can also help keep the fingers straight or support the thumb so that the patient can continue to use the hand during the healing process. The particular type of splint used will depend on a number of factors, particularly the severity of the health problem or injury.
One of the most common examples of the splint is known as the resting hand splint. Essentially, this device helps keep the hand in an open position. Braces of this type help keep the palm flat and the fingers extended and open. The splint also prevents the thumb form from curling into the palm. This can be especially important if the presence of a debilitating disease causes the fingers and thumb to clench into a clenched fist. When wearing the brace, the muscles of the hand are stretched and it is more difficult for the fingers and thumb to become stiff or clenched.
Weight-bearing splints are also helpful when there is stiffness in the hand muscles. This type of hand splint can be helpful when the hand is somewhat weak and unable to bear much weight. Like the resting hand splint, this device helps keep the hand in an open position, preventing cramps and similar discomfort. Some designs allow support to be added up to the elbow of the arm, which can be helpful if the intention is to build shoulder and elbow muscles to help compensate for a weakened hand.
A thumb shank splint is another example of an effective hand and wrist brace. With wrist wraps of this type, the goal is to prevent the thumb from curling into the palm of the hand, but it also allows enough mobility for the fingers and thumb to pick up the object and perform a limited range of tasks.
Depending on the type of splint, the device can be made of different materials. A manual metal splint is often a good option when total immobility is desired. A plastic hand splint may allow a little more range of motion. Some splints, such as the thumb spica splint, can be created using durable neoprene material that keeps the hand flat but allows some movement of the fingers and thumb.