At the Hand and Upper Limb Centre we fabricate custom ‘same day’ thermoplastic orthoses (or splints). Depending on the complexity of the splint, it will usually take between 10 to 30 minutes for it to be fabricated. There are several advantages to thermoplastic orthosis (splints) including being removable for wound care, lighter weight than plaster and they are able to get wet. They look much better than fibreglass or plaster splints, you can pick your favourite colour for the plastic and straps and they wipe clean.

Some patients, due to the complexity of their injury, their age, or their doctors request will not be suitable for a thermoplastic splint. If this is the case, your therapist will be able to discuss other options with you.

Your therapist will often provide you with a special hand ‘sock’ to wear under your splint, this material is called stockinet. You may gently hand wash these socks if they get grubby. If they need replacing, stockinet can be purchased from the clinic for $4 a metre.

If your splint does not seem to be fitting right or a strap becomes loose, please call your therapist immediately to arrange for it to be fixed. Please do not attempt to alter your splint.