ABSTRACT
UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.
Splinting plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of patients with hand injuries or diseases. Although seemingly straightforward, decisions regarding splint type, splinting material, length of splinting, splint position, and active versus dynamic splinting are actually complex. The art of splinting and splint fabrication has been evolving with the advent of new materials, and, as yet, there is no universally accepted method of classification. Historically, there have been numerous proposed systems of splint classification. This chapter will limit its scope to a brief overview of the purposes of splinting, types of materials, common static splint, and the typical conditions for which they may be utilized. Dynamic splints for tendon injuries will also be reviewed briefly.
