Understanding the Difference Between Custom Splinting and Casting for Hand Injuries

Hand injuries can be debilitating and can disrupt your daily life and activities. If you have suffered from a hand injury, you may have heard about both custom splinting and casting as methods of treatment. But what exactly are they? And what is the difference between them? At B Physical Therapy, we understand how important it is for you to receive the right treatment for your injury. That's why we have put together this informative guide to help you understand the difference between custom splinting and casting for hand injuries.

Custom Splinting

Custom splinting is a method of treatment that involves the creation of a custom-fitted splint for your injured hand. The splint is designed to provide support, immobilization, and protection to the injured area, ensuring that it can heal properly. Custom splints are usually made of various materials such as fiberglass, thermoplastic, polyurethane, or metal – depending on the type of injury and the level of support needed.

The process of creating a custom splint usually involves taking a mold of your hand and wrist using a special material. The mold is then used to create the customized splint. Custom splints are often preferred over pre-fabricated ones as they provide a more accurate and comfortable fit for the patient.

Casting

Casting, on the other hand, involves the use of a rigid cast to immobilize the injured area in order to promote healing. A cast can be made of various materials such as plaster, fiberglass, or synthetic material, depending on the injury type. Casting is often best suited for more severe injuries such as fractures or dislocations.

The casting process involves wrapping your injured hand, wrist, and sometimes even your forearm in a wet, plaster cast. The cast is then left to dry and harden, completely immobilizing the injured area. Unlike splints, casts cannot be removed and must be worn for a specified period of time - usually several weeks.

Pros and Cons

Now that we have an understanding of what custom splinting and casting are, let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of each.

Custom splinting allows for a more customized and comfortable fit as it is tailored to your specific injury. It allows for a greater range of motion compared to casting and is generally easier to remove and replace when necessary.

Casting, on the other hand, offers a higher level of immobilization, which is sometimes necessary for certain injuries. It is also more durable and can be effective for a longer period of time than splints.

Conclusion

Knowing the difference between custom splinting and casting can help you make an informed decision about your treatment. Each method has its own unique benefits, and ultimately the choice between the two depends on the severity and type of your injury. At B Physical Therapy, our team of experts can help determine the best course of action for your specific needs. If you are in Winter Park, FL, reach out to us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward recovery.