An elbow splint is a temporary supportive device used to stabilize the arm following injury or surgery. It is non-circumferential, meaning it does not wrap completely around the limb. This design provides rigid support along only a portion of the arm, allowing room for swelling. The splint is held in place by elastic bandages or Velcro straps for temporary immobilization. Elbow splinting is commonly employed immediately after an acute injury or as stabilization before a planned surgical procedure, serving as temporary support until swelling subsides enough for a full cast or permanent brace.
Why Elbow Splinting Is Used
The primary function of an elbow splint is to immobilize the joint, which is necessary for the healing process of upper extremity conditions. By preventing movement, the splint helps to protect injured structures and maintain proper alignment of bones or soft tissues. This stabilization is important for elbow fractures, ensuring the bone remains stable to mend correctly. The splint also supports the elbow after surgery or in cases of ligament or tendon injury, such as severe sprains or strains.
The non-circumferential nature is beneficial for managing pain and swelling immediately after an injury. Acute trauma often leads to significant edema, and the splint’s open design accommodates this without causing dangerous pressure on the limb. Allowing for natural swelling reduces the risk of neurovascular complications that can occur if a fully restrictive device is applied too soon. By reducing movement and accommodating swelling, the splint helps to decrease pain and inflammation.
Splinting prevents excessive motion that could further damage the elbow joint or surrounding soft tissues. Depending on the specific need, splints can be static, holding the joint completely still, or dynamic, allowing for controlled, limited movement during rehabilitation. The specific design is based on the injury’s severity, helping the elbow heal without developing significant stiffness, which is a common complication.
Daily Care and Hygiene
Proper daily care is necessary to prevent skin irritation, odor, and damage to the splint material. Keeping the splint dry is crucial, as moisture can weaken plaster and cause the cotton padding underneath to stay damp. Wet padding creates an environment that can lead to skin breakdown and serious issues beneath the surface. When bathing or showering, the splint must be completely covered with a plastic bag or a specialized waterproof cover, with the seal secured tightly above the edge of the device.
The splint should be kept away from excessive heat sources, such as direct sunlight, heaters, or a hot car. Heat can cause the plastic or thermoplastic components to soften and lose their custom shape, compromising stabilization.
If the splint is removable, it can typically be hand-washed with mild soap and cool water, then allowed to air dry completely. For splints that cannot be removed, the exposed edges of the skin and the outer surfaces should be gently cleaned daily with a wipe or a small amount of hand sanitizer.
A common issue is itching underneath the splint, but never insert any objects inside the device to scratch the skin. Foreign objects can damage the skin, causing a wound or infection hidden beneath the splint material. Minor itching may be relieved by gently tapping the outside of the splint or by using a cool compress on the exposed skin nearby. The skin around the splint’s edges should be checked daily for signs of rubbing or excessive redness that persists for more than 20 minutes after the device has been in place.
Signs of Serious Trouble
Monitoring the arm for signs of impaired circulation or nerve function is important when wearing an elbow splint. Numbness, tingling, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the hand or fingers can signal excessive pressure on the nerves.
A dangerous sign is a change in the color of the fingers, such as becoming blue, pale, or excessively white, along with severe coldness that indicates poor blood flow. If the hand or fingers swell significantly beyond the splint’s edge or do not change color when pressed, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Pain that is severe, constant, and unrelieved by elevation or pain medication should also be treated as a warning sign. This level of pain, especially if it worsens rapidly or feels like an intense burning or stinging, suggests the splint may be too tight or that swelling is creating dangerous pressure on the tissues. The limb should be elevated above the heart to help reduce swelling, but if the severe pain persists, the healthcare provider must be contacted immediately.
Signs of potential infection or skin breakdown require prompt evaluation to prevent further complications. These include a foul odor emanating from the splint, excessive drainage on the padding, or a fever. Significant redness, blistering, or the development of an open sore near the splint’s edges that does not heal should also be reported to the medical team. If any of these signs of serious trouble appear, seek emergency care or contact the orthopedic provider without delay.