A wrist splint is a device that keeps your wrist from moving. A splint supports your wrist like a cast, but it is more flexible. It can be removed or loosened. The supporting part of a splint does not completely surround your wrist. It is held in place with an elastic band or straps.
You may need a wrist splint if you have hurt your wrist or if you have a condition that causes swelling. Depending on the type of wrist problem you have, your splint may extend up your arm, onto your hand, or around your thumb. The wrist splint may be worn to:
• Support your wrist.
• Protect your injury.
• Prevent further injury.
• Prevent movement.
• Reduce pain.
• Promote healing.
It is important to follow your …show more content…
This can happen if there is a lot of swelling or if the splint is too tight. This results in a condition called compartment syndrome and can cause permanent damage. Symptoms include:
• Pain that is getting worse.
• Tingling and numbness.
• Changes in skin color, including paleness or a bluish color.
• Cold fingers.
Other complications of wearing a splint can include:
• Skin irritation that can cause:
• Itching.
• Rash.
• Skin sores.
• Skin infection.
• Wrist stiffness. This can occur if you have worn a splint for a long time.
• Wrist weakness.
HOW TO USE YOUR WRIST SPLINT
Your wrist splint should be tight enough to support your wrist without cutting off your blood supply. How long you need to wear the splint depends on the type of wrist problem you have. Your health care provider will instruct you on how to wear your wrist splint and for how long.
Splint Wear
• Wear the splint as told by your health care provider. Remove it only as told by your health care provider.
• Loosen the splint if your fingers tingle, become numb, or turn cold and blue.
• Keep the splint clean.
• If the splint is not waterproof:
○ Do not let it get