Posted on November 26, 2009 in Arthritis Treatment
Hands and wrists are the mobile parts which need support if they suffer with arthritis. Splints are the artificial supporting tools that are recommended to support painful, weak and swollen joints and the structures of the joints. However, they should not be wore for long times as it could lead to muscle atrophy and other complications This article explores on the types of splints for hand and wrist and how to wear them.
There are basically two types of splints for hand and wrist: Resting and Working. This article is only for the information of splints. You need to consult your orthopedician or registered health care practitioner before using splints.
Resting splints:
Resting splints are made to keep joints in rest. These splints are used to ease swelling and pain of the joint by immobilizing the joint. These assist the user to rest hand or wrist and keep them in defined position for longer time. They are made up of thermoplastic and fitted with fastening strips. Orthopedic market features several varieties of resting splints but they are custom designed by the orthopedicians. These splints are also wore to reduce the swelling and stiffness of the bones especially for morning stiffness.
Working Splints:
As the name suggest these splints are wore when the hand is working and yet needs some support. They act as extra hands for the patient by make them feel the original hand. The patient can carry on the daily activities with out any difficulty. These splints support your hand and wrist bones firmly and make your hand feel less mobile. But this splints work wonderfully if your hands really need that support. These splints should be wore for short periods during the day or overnight. It is best to refer to your therapist before start using this splints.
How to wear:
- Take the splints and undo the straps provided with them.
- Put your hand in the splint so that he splint is in contact with palm and there is no space between the splint and the wrist
- Tight up the straps carefully seeing that it should not be too tight or too loose.
- If there is thumb section, be sure to use this section with care so that thumb is also supported.
» Filed Under Arthritis Treatment
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