Brace or splint after an injury
splint · brace · orthosis · support brace · immobilizer
An injured arm, leg, or joint is held still so it can heal. A splint, a half cast, or a ready-made brace is used for this.
For fractures, hairline cracks, dislocations, bad sprains, or after some surgeries.
⏱ Duration: putting it on usually takes 10 to 30 minutes; you wear it as long as your doctor says, often a few days to a few weeks
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Before the visit. Keep the injured area still. You can put something cold on it through a cloth. Do not try to put a joint back in place yourself.
- Jewelry. Take rings, bracelets, and watches off the injured arm in advance. With swelling, they are hard to remove.
- Clothing. Loose clothes with a wide sleeve or trouser leg.
What to bring
- Your ID
- X-rays and reports, if you already had them
- A ready-made brace, if you bought one as your doctor said
How it goes
- The doctor checks the injury and sends you for an X-ray if needed
- The type of support and size are chosen
- Soft padding is put on the skin
- The splint or brace is put on and secured with a bandage or straps
- They check that your fingers or toes are warm, can move, and that nothing is too tight
- You are told how to wear it, how to take it off, and when to come back
What you'll feel
- It may hurt while it is put on, if the injured area is moved
- The first days feel strange and awkward. That is normal
- The skin may itch under the support
Afterwards
- Keep the arm or leg raised for the first few days. This reduces swelling
- Do not get a plaster splint wet. Take off a brace only if your doctor allows
- Do not push anything under the bandage, even if it itches
- Come for your checkup and X-ray when your doctor told you
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Fingers or toes turn blue, pale, or cold: see a doctor urgently
- Severe pain that keeps getting worse, numbness, or tingling under the support
- The support gets wet, cracks, or presses too hard
Common questions
Can I take the splint off at night?
Only if your doctor allows. Most often the splint stays on, or the bone may shift.
What can I do if it itches under the splint?
Do not push anything under it. Cool air from a hair dryer helps. If the itch is strong, tell your doctor.