Splint Fabrication

Splint fabrication is the process of applying a splint to an injured area on the body. Common types of custom splints include finger splints, hand splints, hand braces, wrist splints and more. The splint can provide minimal, moderate, or maximum resistance depending on the type of injury. Some splints are constructed using Plaster of Paris, plaster, fiberglass, padding, and ace wraps. Other splints are made out of metal, cloth, plastic, or leather as well.

There are several types of splint fabrication used for splinting. These consist of a custom fabricated, prefabricated, and custom fitted splint.

1. A custom fabricated splint is a splint that is individualized for each patient. Castings, measurements, tracings, and images of the injured area are used to create a specialized splint. The therapist constructs the splint by molding, drilling, sewing, or bending the splint material before fitting and applying it to the patient.
2. A prefabricated splint is one that is made by a manufacturer. The splint is not individualized for the patient. Minimal adjustments can be made to fit the splint and it does not require special services from occupational therapy for fitting the splint.
3. A custom fitted splint is a type of prefabricated splint that requires adjustments made by the occupational therapist. The therapist bends, cuts, or molds the splint and may or may not have to use heat to manipulate the splint.

Our occupational therapists are trained in splint fabrication and will work with each patient and refer physician to find the splint that is the right fit for the individual’s needs.