Your custom thermoplastic splint has been made specifically for you. It plays an important role in your treatment, whether it is protecting a healing structure, reducing pain, correcting a position or supporting your recovery after surgery. Getting the most from your splint depends on wearing it correctly and looking after it well.
How to put your splint on
Your splint has been fitted at your appointment and adjusted to fit your hand precisely. When putting it on:
- Slide your hand into the splint in the correct position as shown to you
- Secure the straps firmly enough to hold the splint in place without cutting in or causing discomfort
- The splint should feel supportive and comfortable — not tight or pressing on any bony area
- If your splint has a specific position it needs to hold your wrist or fingers in, make sure that position is achieved before fastening the straps
If you are unsure whether your splint is on correctly, contact the clinic and we can check at your next appointment.
When to wear your splint
Your therapist will have advised you on when to wear your splint. Common wearing schedules include:
- Night only — for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis, where the aim is to hold the wrist or hand in a comfortable position during sleep
- Daytime use — for support during work, sport or daily tasks
- Full-time — following surgery or acute injury, where the healing structure needs consistent protection
- During specific activities only — for some conditions, wearing the splint during certain tasks helps manage symptoms without limiting function at other times
Follow the wearing schedule given to you. Wearing your splint for less time than advised may slow your recovery. If you are finding the schedule difficult to stick to, let your therapist know so they can discuss this with you.
Cleaning your splint
Thermoplastic orthoses can be cleaned easily with mild soap and cool water. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside and outside of the splint after use. Rinse off any soap residue and allow the splint to dry fully before wearing it again.
Important: Do not put your splint in hot water, a dishwasher or near a source of direct heat such as a radiator or in a car on a hot day. Thermoplastic material is designed to soften with heat — this is what allows it to be moulded to your wrist or hand. Exposure to heat when you are not wearing it may distort the shape.
The straps and padding can be wiped down in the same way. If the padding becomes worn, or the Velcro straps lose their grip, contact the clinic for replacement parts.
Skin care while wearing your splint
Wearing a splint for extended periods can make the skin underneath warm and damp. To keep your skin comfortable:
- Remove your splint for short periods during the day if your schedule allows, to air the skin
- Wash and dry the skin under the splint gently, but thoroughly when you remove it
- Moisturise the skin regularly — dry or cracked skin can become uncomfortable under a splint
- Do not apply thick creams or oils immediately before putting the splint on, as this can make the skin slippery and affect the fit
If you notice any skin irritation, redness, blistering or breakdown under the splint, remove it and contact the clinic.
What to do if your splint feels uncomfortable
Some mild settling-in discomfort is normal in the first day or two of wearing a new splint. However, contact the clinic promptly if you experience:
- Persistent pain, pressure or numbness in any area under the splint
- Redness, blistering or broken skin
- Tingling or pins and needles that do not resolve when you remove the splint
- The splint digging into a bony prominence such as the wrist bones or knuckles
- A significant change in swelling that makes the splint feel too tight or too loose
Thermoplastic splints can be adjusted quickly at your next appointment. Never try to reshape the splint yourself at home by applying heat — this risks altering the fit or losing the corrective position.
Storing your splint
When you are not wearing your splint, store it somewhere cool and away from direct sunlight or heat. Leaving it on a car dashboard, near a radiator or in a hot room risks distorting the shape.
A clean cloth bag is ideal. Avoid crushing or bending the splint when storing it.
When can I stop wearing my splint?
Your therapist will advise you on when it is appropriate to reduce or stop wearing your splint. This decision is based on your progress, your symptoms and the healing of the underlying condition. Do not stop wearing your splint early because symptoms have improved — improvement is often a sign that the splint is working, and stopping too soon can allow symptoms to return.
If you have any questions about your splint, wearing schedule or how your treatment is progressing, please contact the clinic or raise them at your next appointment.