Splinting Flashcards
what are the purposes of splinting?
protective (immobilize)
corrective (existing deformity)
assistive (weak muscles)
goal of dynamic splint
encourage early motion
prevents
corrects
goal of static progressive splint
increase ROM
goal of serial casting
increase ROM prevent soft tissue shortening
how do 3 point pressure splints influence ROM?
immobilization
mobilization
restriction
torque
what are circumfrential splints?
multiple opposing, 2-pt pressures
non articular: dont influence jt ROM
when are circumfrential splints indicated?
repaired digital pulleys
stable fractures
soft tissue damage from overuse or RSI
what is the proper measurement for splints?
1/2 circumference
2/3 length of part
what are the rules from splint making?
longer, wider splints
rolled edges on distal and proximal edges
continuous, uniform pressure over bony areas
what make up the wrist splint lever system?
wrist = axis hand = weight/resistance forearm = counterforce
what are the rotational and translational elements of force in a splint?
they produce joint rotation (good) and joint distraction or compression (bad)
what is the force created in a splint?
pull applied by OT via rubber band, elastic, spring
why should the force in a splint be perpendicular to the bone being moved?
translational force is lessened and rotational force is full magnitude
what happens if the outrigger is moved?
applied force will change
what happens if the rubber band isnt at 90 degrees on a splint?
becomes translational force
what is torque?
force x length of arm on which it movesT = F x D
aka effectiveness of force
what does amount of torque depend on?
distance btwn jt axis and point of forceas distance increases, torque increases
what is a 3 point fixation of a splint?
combined downward weight (forearm, hand) must be opposed by = upward force at the axis (wrist)
how do you increase the area of force application?
widen straps which oppose forces
what are high profile outriggers?
allows for easier adjustment with stiff jts
gives greater jt stability
what are low-profile outriggers?
substitutes for absent motionused when jts are supple
what are mechanical jts?
articulated splint components
must be lined up with actual jts
what happens if mechanical jts arent lined up properly?
creates shear or friction of forces
why do splints need to be contoured?
if large force is placed on thin flat surface, counter force is insufficient and bends
what does friction indicate?
poor fit
improper jt alignment
ineffective fastenings
what is the safe position?
wrist: 20-30 degree ext
MCP: 40-60 degree flex
fingers: full extension
thumb: abduction/extension
why do we use safe positon?
protect collateral ligaments + eventual mobility
