SPLINTING 101- ANATOMIC AND BIOMECHANICAL PRINCIPLES OF SPLINTING

Course overview

*Define the anatomical terminology used in splint prescriptions *Relate anatomy of the upper extremity to splint design *Identify arches of the hand *Identify creases of the hand *Articulate the importance of the hand's arches and creases to splinting *Recall actions and nerve innervations of upper extremity musculature *Differentiate prehensile and grasp patterns of the hand *Apply basic biomechanical principles to splint design *Describe the correct width and length for a forearm splint *Describe uses of padding in a splint *Explain the reason splint edges should be rolled or flared *Relate contour to splint fabrication *Describe the change in skin and soft tissue mechanics with scar tissue, material application, edema, contractures, wounds, and infection