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Splint Care Tips

Table of Contents


Overview

A splint protects a broken bone or other injury. If you have a removable splint, follow your doctor's instructions and only remove the splint if your doctor says it's okay.

Most splints can be adjusted. Your doctor will show you how to do this and will tell you when you might need to adjust the splint. A splint is sometimes called a brace. You may also hear it called an immobilizer. An immobilizer, such as a splint or cast, keeps you from moving the injured area.

You may get a splint that's already factory-made. Or your doctor might make your splint from plaster or fiberglass. Some splints have a built-in air cushion. Air pads are inflated to hold the injured area in place.

How can you care for yourself when you wear a splint?

General care

Splint and skin care

Water and your splint

Wearing a splint: When to call

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:


Credits for Splint Care Tips

Current as of: July 17, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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