Splints and devices of the lower extremities. Splint for the whole leg: lightness and reliable fixation Splint on the ankle joints for walking

In case of diseases of the skeletal system, injuries of the lower extremities, or after surgical interventions, the damaged knee joint requires special rehabilitation conditions. Not every technical means will provide the necessary fixation for this important and vulnerable element of the musculoskeletal system. A special device - an orthopedic splint for the knee joint - will help protect the knee from damage, avoid deformation of the injured limb, and speed up the rehabilitation period.

What is a splint?

Long-lasting, uncomfortable plaster casts, splints, gauze, and elastic bandages, used in traumatology and orthopedics for the treatment of the knee joint, are being replaced by more functional technical means.

A splint is a sleeve-shaped fixing device that eliminates any possibility of the injured joint making any movements or allows it to move exclusively at a given amplitude.

It can be a monolithic structure or a product consisting of separate, interconnected frame rings. In the manufacture of orthopedic splints, various materials are used:

the inner surface is lined with a pleasant body lining made of natural fiber, leather or terry cloth;
the outer layer is made of inextensible, non-deformable material, equipped with stiffening ribs - metal, polymer or plastic inserts that strengthen the structure;
system of fixing fastenings - Velcro tapes, wide belts, buckles, lacing.

Splints made of gypsum - regular, plastic or polymer - are reliable fixators, but have a number of disadvantages. Their main problem is the inability to adjust the degree of fixation, which ultimately leads to deterioration of blood supply, compression and swelling.

Unlike cheaper and more accessible ones made from gypsum, a multilayer orthopedic brace for the knee joint has the following advantages:

light weight, high strength, wear resistance;
possibility of individual customization;
ease of use - quickly and easily put on and, if necessary, removed;
provides the degree of support specified by the doctor, the angle of flexion and freedom of movement in certain directions;
the problem area is accessible at any time;
for normal heat exchange it is perforated - the breathable product ensures comfort for long-term wearing;
the inner layer is made of material that is safe for sensitive skin and does not cause allergies;
Washable, allowing you to maintain personal hygiene.

Why are splints prescribed?

Doctors prescribe wearing a splint for adults and children, because... This safe and practical product has numerous useful functions:

reliable and stable fixing effect – holding the limb in a physiologically correct position, ensuring rest, correcting joint deformity;
protective functions - preventing possible traumatic effects and its unpleasant consequences;
massage and warming effect - it is provided by a cast splint covering the entire joint, this helps improve blood supply, launches metabolic processes in damaged tissues, and leads to rapid healing;
compression effect – bringing together and supporting joint elements due to a tight fit, which prevents their displacement during fractures and injuries, improves the process of strengthening and restoring the integrity of the tendon-ligamentous apparatus;
symptomatic treatment - elimination of swelling, relief of the inflammatory process becomes possible by reducing the load on the diseased joint.

What types of tutors are there?

Knee braces come in different sizes and configurations and can cover the limb from the mid-thigh to the top of the shin. The shape follows the silhouette of the leg and ensures stability of the joint.

Based on the strength with which you can fix the injured limb, there are 2 types of splints:

hard (similar to a cast) - a device that completely immobilizes, i.e. limits active and passive movements in the knee joint, which is necessary to restore and maintain the correct axis of the limb. Prescribed for serious injuries, chronic and progressive;
medium fixation - an orthopedic product that allows limited mobility of the joint, allowing you to set the direction of movement, fix the permissible amplitude, and increase the range in doses.

Based on the principle of action and the expected effect, orthopedic splints for the knee joint are divided into:

Preventive models are knee pads of medium hardness; they are used during periods of exacerbation of joint pathology or increased injury.
Therapeutic – models of rigid fixation used in complex treatment or rehabilitation.
Functional, improving the quality of life - long-term use splints, prescribed in cases of cerebral palsy, congenital or acquired anomalies of the osteoarticular system.

Splints of the third group are often made individually - either on the patient’s leg or from a plaster cast, taking into account the anatomical features of the patient, accurately reproducing the relief of his leg. Preventive and therapeutic models are usually produced industrially, at prosthetic and orthopedic enterprises.

When choosing one model or another, you should pay attention to the following criteria:

material of manufacture - must be light, durable, breathable, hygienic, not cause allergies or irritation;
product size - selected exactly in accordance with the circumference of the limb, measured with a tight-fitting measuring tape in the places indicated by the manufacturer on the packaging of the orthopedic product (this is the lower leg, thigh, knee);
reliability of fastening, safety, tightness and adjustability of fixation - mandatory fitting of the product is required, it is advisable to clarify whether return and exchange of the purchased product is provided;
degree of rigidity - if there is no medical restriction on the type of disease, then it is recommended to use a splint of medium fixation, because it promotes normal blood circulation, tissue nutrition, and preservation of muscle tone, and this is a necessary condition for a speedy recovery.

When, to whom, in what cases is wearing a splint prescribed?

The decision to fix the injured knee joint with a splint is made by a qualified surgeon. Indications for use are as follows:

acute, patella, meniscus damage, ligament rupture, fractures, dislocations, operations on the knee joint;
various pathologies of the musculoskeletal system, developmental anomalies, deformities;
hemorrhage in the joint, muscle paralysis, myositis - inflammatory damage to the muscles of the lower extremities;
clubfoot, curvature, cerebral palsy.

Having established the need to wear an orthopedic device, the doctor also:

will help you choose the most suitable model that corresponds to the treatment objectives;
choose the right size;
adjusts the splint by assigning an acceptable degree of support;
determine operating conditions and optimal wearing period;
will prescribe a complex of therapeutic exercises to develop the joint.

Purchasing and installing a splint without consultation with a treating specialist is unacceptable. Self-medication of the musculoskeletal system, violation of the wearing regime, non-compliance and non-compliance with medical recommendations can cause significant harm. This threatens not only the lack of a therapeutic effect, but can result in irreversible consequences - progression of the disease, complete immobility of the knee, and ultimately result in disability.

Particular attention should be paid to the choice of a knee brace for a child. Children wear them for a long time, not only during the day, but often at night. It must be comfortable, ideally sized and meet all the requirements established for a high-quality, safe and reliable children's orthopedic device:

light weight, strength, rigidity of the product;
base made of elastic, wear-resistant material with a soft, breathable lining;
hypoallergenic, high hygiene;
detachable design, which is quickly and conveniently removed;
easy adjustment and fixation.

Popular manufacturing companies

You should not buy a product that is too cheap from an unknown manufacturer; preference should be given to a well-known, trusted company that cares about its reputation and the quality of its products. The products of such companies have certificates of conformity and a registration certificate from the Ministry of Health.

The Orlett brand is one of the most recognizable. This German company is a developer and manufacturer of orthoses made from modern high-quality materials. Their products meet the requirements of both the professional medical community and patients. The KS-601 splint presented in the line of orthoses has the following advantages:

metal stiffeners and non-stretchable cuffs ensure complete fixation of the knee joint;
5 modeled tires are provided for individual adjustment to the leg;
6 back-to-back straps (small sizes have 4 straps) with textile Velcro fastener provide additional support;
The cuffs are made of soft, pleasant to the touch material, suitable for sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions.

Trives is a network of orthopedic salons. The company from St. Petersburg has been producing and selling medical products under its own brand for 20 years.

The T-8506 splint, designed to provide complete fixation and lateral stabilization of the knee joint, consists of the following elements:

5 extended metal tires – 3 at the rear, 2 at the side;
3 panels individually adjusted to the structure of the limb;
belt-tightening systems consisting of 6 tapes – 60 cm, 4 – 50 cm, equipped with Velcro fasteners;
The inner layer is made of terry fabric, suitable for long-term wear.

Why is it important to distinguish splints from other retainers?

To prevent and treat diseases of the bone joint and deformities of the musculoskeletal system, various orthopedic devices are used to provide the diseased joint with protection, support, fixation and rest. All clamps are conventionally divided into 2 groups:

– tight-fitting joint bandages made of elastic knitted fabric. They can be in the form of a primitive fabric knee pad or have polymer stiffeners, hinges, silicone inserts, Velcro straps and other elements that improve fixation. They are used for preventive and therapeutic purposes - they have weak fixing properties, but improve blood circulation, warm, eliminate pain and swelling.
Orthopedic devices (orthoses) are structurally more complex devices for fixation. These are products made of dense, rigid material, combining metal, plastic, leather, fabric and equipped with hinged parts. Orthoses are effective not only for fixation, correction of the limb, unloading the affected joint, but also during the rehabilitation period, because their design provides for the preservation of motor function. This is possible thanks to the adjustment mechanism and gradual increase in the amplitude of movement

Do not iron;

Wipe hard removable elements with a dry cloth, and after drying the product, return them to their place.

Orthopedic devices are often used to fix joints and bones of the limbs after injuries or various diseases. One such rigid fixation device is splints. They are used in orthopedics and traumatology in the treatment of pathologies of the lower extremities. Such devices are prescribed to children and adults to relieve pain, correct deformities, after injuries or operations.

What it is

A splint is an orthopedic device for fixing and stabilizing a joint. With its help, you can keep it in the correct position, preventing the progression of deformities or degenerative processes. Limiting movements in the joint is also necessary after injuries to speed up recovery and prevent complications. The leg in such a device is in the correct position, the joints do not move. This ensures comfort during any movement.

The splints are made of plastic or leather. It consists of several parts that are connected using straps, Velcro, laces or other fasteners. In addition, plates or inserts of flexible metal are sometimes present. This design ensures that the splint matches the shape of the limb. When all fasteners are properly tensioned, the joint is firmly fixed. This helps prevent injuries due to instability, facilitates movement during pain, and also corrects deformities.

Such devices are often used for the ankle joint. This joint performs a supporting function, therefore, with various disturbances in its functioning, a person loses the ability to move. For a speedy recovery, doctors recommend wearing splints, which relieve stress on the joint, fix it in the correct position, and prevent pain.

Such orthopedic devices with rigid fixation can replace a plaster cast in case of injury

Indications for use

Splints for the ankle joint are used for the treatment and prevention of various pathologies. Their wearing is prescribed in all cases where it is necessary to limit the movement of the foot or completely immobilize it. Such devices also help to fix the joint if it is unstable or the foot drops.

Indications for their use are the following cases:

paresis, paralysis, cerebral palsy, strokes, consequences of polio and other pathologies leading to dysfunction of the ankle joint or lower leg muscles;
flat feet, clubfoot or equinovarus foot deformity;
deforming arthrosis;
shortening of one leg;
shin or ankle injuries, sprains or ligament ruptures;
If you have a knee injury, you can use a high splint from the heel to the middle of the thigh.

Varieties

Such orthopedic devices can be one-piece. In this case, they need to be made to order according to an individual cast of the limb. But most often, separate ones are used, consisting of several parts, which are adjusted using straps.

Based on their purpose, devices are divided into three groups. Therapeutic and restorative devices are used after injuries, arthritis or neurological pathologies. They are also called load-free. They are usually hard and you cannot step on your feet in them. They are used for bedridden patients or at night.

A functional splint helps slow down joint deformation and cartilage tissue destruction. It is adapted for walking, preventing pain and discomfort. There are also preventive splints that are worn in case of joint instability or before increased loads to prevent injury.

There is also a cosmetic splint for the shin and ankle. This device is designed to camouflage minor defects or deformities of the joint or lower leg. Most often, such splints are recommended for women. They are made of thermoplastic plastic, which is almost invisible on the foot. Such a splint consists of an inner part, which corresponds to the shape of the leg, and an outer part, which follows the shape of a healthy limb.

Splints come in different degrees of hardness, some of them can be worn under special shoes

In addition, such devices vary in degree of rigidity. They are elastic, medium hard or hard. The latter type can replace a plaster cast. The type of retainer and the degree of its rigidity can only be selected by a specialist in accordance with individual characteristics.

Children's splints

It is recommended to wear a children's splint on the ankle joint to a child with congenital anomalies of the foot, connective tissue pathologies, clubfoot or flat feet. Wearing special devices is also recommended for children with cerebral palsy, rickets or polio. Such rigid splints will help them move.

These orthopedic devices are made from hypoallergenic materials. They can be knee-high or the entire leg. Most often they are worn by small children under 2 years old or at night, since most of them rigidly fix the leg, so it is impossible to walk in them.

When purchasing a splint, a child must choose the correct size. The parts of the device must fit snugly to the foot. Velcro and straps must be fastened so that the splint does not put too much pressure on the leg, but does not dangle either. Children's devices should leave some room for movement, since if it is completely limited, improper formation of the limb or muscle atrophy is possible.

When putting on the splint, it is important to tighten all clasps and straps correctly.

Rules of application

Only a doctor can choose a suitable shin splint. Such devices should not be used at your own discretion. You need to select a tutor strictly individually. Not everyone can wear them. Such devices are contraindicated in the presence of damage or inflammatory skin diseases in the ankle area, with exacerbation of gout or arthritis. But even with the right choice, the effectiveness of its use depends on wearing it correctly.

Before putting on the device, you need to steam your foot in warm water, then wipe it dry. It's also good to massage your ankle. Then put on a cotton high sock without seams or a special bandage. Do not apply lotions, creams or ointments to the skin under this device.

All straps must be fastened correctly. The splint should not dangle on the leg, but it should also not be over-tightened. If after some time the fingers become numb and cold, they turn white, and you feel “goose bumps”, you need to loosen the straps. After a while they are fastened again, but not so tightly.

It is recommended to wear the splint no more than 8-10 hours a day. Many models are worn only at night and cannot be walked in. To speed up the healing process, in between putting on this device you need to do massage and therapeutic exercises. The course of such treatment usually ranges from 10 days to several months. It depends on the individual characteristics and severity of the pathology.

A correctly selected and applied splint improves the patient’s condition, speeds up recovery, and stops degenerative processes. But, if no improvement is noticed while wearing it, pain or discomfort appears, you need to consult a doctor.

Neoprene splint allows you to adjust the position of the joint

Models

Such devices are produced by various orthopedic companies. Their price depends not only on the popularity of the brand. It is influenced by the materials from which the splint is made and the complexity of the design. Typically such devices cost from 2 to 20 thousand rubles. And not necessarily those that are more expensive will be better. Cheap Russian-made products also perform their functions well. They may be less durable, but usually the average course of wearing such a device is 2 weeks. The most common are models from several manufacturers.

The Fosta F-2271 splint fixes the joint, the back of the foot and the lower third of the lower leg. This retainer, reinforced with flat metal plates, is worn under shoes. It is recommended to wear it after removing the cast, for sprains, joint instability, arthrosis, or sagging feet. It is also effective for preventing injuries under increased loads.

The Fosta FS 2226 neoprene splint provides medium fixation and stabilizes the joint. It has a special design; it is a sock with an open heel. Fixation is ensured by Velcro tape, which allows you to create different angles of adduction of the joint. The splint is used for arthrosis, achillobursitis, joint instability, after injuries and operations.

To fix the joint and reduce stress on it, an Orlett lace-up splint is used. It has stiffening ribs and can replace a plaster cast for damaged ligaments or simple ankle injuries. It can be worn with shoes.

The strong fixation derotational splint Fosta 2952 has a device for complete fixation of the foot in a stationary position. It is used after injuries to the lower leg and hip joint, during the rehabilitation period after a stroke.

The Medi M.STEP 885 orthosis also firmly fixes the ankle joint and prevents lateral movements in it. It is used after injuries, as well as in the treatment of various joint pathologies.

The rigid splint ORTEX 010 fixes the leg from the heel to the middle of the thigh. Used after operations or injuries of the ankle and knee joint.

Various orthopedic devices can now be purchased freely. But you should not make the decision to wear a splint on your own. Only a doctor can determine what degree of joint fixation is necessary in each specific case.

A splint is a special type of support that is used to fix an injured leg. It solves the same problems as all other bandages - to fix the leg and prevent repeated dislocations and sprains. The ankle splint has a rigid frame and sits firmly on the leg. There are load-free and functional calipers on sale, as well as products for children.

Design Features

An ankle splint is a type of rigid brace that helps treat ankle injuries. Orthopedists recommend wearing a brace for fractures, muscle and ligament ruptures. Fixation is indicated in the postoperative period, for some neurological diseases.
The product looks like a tight joint of sleeves, or like a right or left shoe, strictly maintaining the anatomical shape of the leg. A functional splint for the ankle joints is prescribed to protect the legs from additional stress. For children, ankle splints are available in different sizes.

Types of tutors

In case of bruises of the ankle joint, the leg can be fixed with different devices: soft or semi-rigid bandages, with belts or with laces. But many orthopedists prefer a rigid splint. You can choose a model depending on the tasks and nature of the injury:

typical;
prefabricated modular;
made to order.

Children's ankle splints are made from special materials, since light weight and hypoallergenic products are important here. They are made of genuine leather and medical plastic. The price of the product depends on the materials, but patients usually do not save on such a purchase.

Several types of splints are produced:

fixing (for use at night);
dynamic (worn during the day to reduce pain);
non-load-bearing (not intended for walking);
foot supports (for functional support of the foot when it sag after strokes, in case of neurological diseases).

The reason for wearing a brace can be not only injury, but also neurological abnormalities, paresis, partial paralysis, including congenital ones. Which product model is required in a particular case is decided only by a specialist. Different models are developed to fix one or more joints, completely prevent movement or partially limit it.

The inside of the product is covered with natural fabric to prevent allergic reactions.

Fixing straps allow you to adjust the product to your leg and obtain the desired degree of fixation.

Indications for using a splint

An ankle splint is used both to correct movements and to ensure joint immobility.

Fixators are used as an additional measure in the treatment of joint diseases:

arthrosis;
rheumatism;
arthritis.

In this case, wearing an orthopedic device is combined with drug treatment. Patients are prescribed medications that reduce pain and relieve swelling - NSAIDs, analgesics, glucocorticoids.

At the same time, doctors insist on high-quality nutrition that provides the body with beneficial nutrients, or on a diet if the patient is overweight. The support does not interfere with exercise therapy or moderate bed rest.

Adults are prescribed to wear a rigid splint when:

there was a turning point. The fixative is used instead of plaster;
Long-term rehabilitation is required after a complex dislocation;
diagnosed with arthritis or arthrosis. An orthopedic device reduces the load on the limb and significantly reduces pain;
An inflammatory disease in the joint was diagnosed.

In all these conditions, the main properties of the caliper are important: immobilize, relieve swelling, strengthen ligaments, and keep the ankle group in the correct position.

For children, the list of indications is expanded, supplemented by specific children's problems:

congenital neurological diseases: cerebral palsy, lower limb paralysis;
shortening of the limb, clubfoot;
ankle dysplasia;
valgus change in the structure of the feet;
rickets;
degenerative pathologies of the spinal cord.

There are many diseases that require rigid fixation of joints in the acute stage. As inflammation decreases, rigid fixation is replaced by a medium-hard product.

There are also contraindications to wearing a splint:

suppuration, wounds and inflammation on the skin;
allergy to construction materials;
exacerbation of gout.

In addition, for foot injuries that require rigid fixation, functional product models are not used.

Children's blunt from turbocast

Pediatric orthopedists prescribe wearing a support not only for injuries, but also to correct congenital pathologies of the foot and ankle. There is a real opportunity to teach children with cerebral palsy and developmental disabilities of the musculoskeletal system to walk independently.

A special feature of using a support for children with cerebral palsy is that the devices are worn at night. Children grow quickly and this fixation prevents joint deformation, with virtually no interference.

Children's orthopedic products have different heights and sizes; for a child of any height, you can easily choose an “assistant” in treatment. The foot is secured in the fixator at a given angle, thereby preventing it from being turned to the side or turned outward.

Adults should ensure that the baby's heel rests completely against the back bottom wall. The peculiarity of children's splints is that they can be worn during the day in special shoes.

Children's products are made in workshops using individual casts, using a special material - thermoplastic, or turbocast. This eliminates sizing errors. However, the child grows quickly, and each time a new product will have to be made. To buy a serial product, you need to carefully select the size, which is determined by foot measurements and compared with the data in standard tables.

Measurements should be taken by a specialist so as not to make a mistake in the size.

Children's turbocast splints are a new product in orthopedics. Turbocast is a low-melting thermoplastic. Its peculiarity is the ability to “remember” the shape, which helps to correct the position of the joints and develop an individual stereotype of movements. This is the latest development in the production of orthopedic fixators. It allows you to quickly create a design for a children's ankle splint. The fixative is made in half an hour. The technician heats the material to 60°C and cools it to 40°C. At this time, the doctor places the patient’s leg in the desired position on a special chair or couch.

After this, the warm material is applied to the ankle and given an individual shape. Turbocast is very plastic, the molding of the splint occurs quickly, the material cools down in 5-7 minutes.

A correctly selected bandage will speed up tissue regeneration and help restore former mobility.

Select the desired category and product name from the catalogue. Parameter correspondence tables will help you determine the size you need yourself. If necessary, specialists and center managers will advise you by phone. Find out from them the cost of the product and its availability in the showroom.

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Lower limb splints

A splint is an orthopedic product that fixes the joint in a stationary state. It is used in cases where it is necessary to limit active and passive movements in the joint and fix the limb in a physiologically correct position. An ankle brace helps to significantly shorten the recovery period after fractures and fracture-dislocations, as well as prevent secondary damage to the joint.

Ankle splints are made of plastic or leather, lacing or straps made of thick fabric are used for fixation, and the inside of the product is covered with a layer of natural fabric to avoid an allergic reaction. Thanks to the fixing straps, the product is adjusted to the leg, depending on the doctor’s prescription.

Kinds

Models can be standard or custom-made. The first ones can be purchased at a regular orthopedic store. Products are distinguished depending on what material they are made of, so the retainer can be leather or plastic.

Depending on the functional features, the following types are distinguished:

non-stress braces are used during sleep or for bedridden patients; walking in them is prohibited

No-load

functional restraints are used during movement;

Functional tutor

Foot support splints are used for foot drop.

Stop holder

Models can fix one or more joints; there are also models that prevent movement not only in the ankle, but in the entire limb; they are used for severe injuries and pathologies of the joint.

Indications

Wearing a rigid retainer should only be carried out as directed by a doctor; using such a product without a specialist’s prescription can lead to serious complications.

Wearing a splint is prescribed in the following cases:

severe injuries of the ankle joint, ankle fractures, fracture dislocations, ligament ruptures;
neurological diseases, for example, cerebral palsy;
spinal cord injury;
shortening of the limb;
postoperative period;
paraplegia;
hallux valgus;
clubfoot;
deforming arthrosis, contracture, and other articular pathologies in the acute stage.

In case of inflammatory and degenerative pathologies of the ankle joint, a hard brace can be replaced with a medium-hard model or an articulated orthosis, it all depends on the severity of the patient’s condition.

Contraindications

Wearing a splint is contraindicated in the following cases:

in case of violation of the integrity of the skin in the affected area, during suppuration;
if you are allergic to the components of the fixative;
for gout during an exacerbation;
functional models are contraindicated for injuries that require reliable fixation and for foot deformities.

Splints for children

An ankle splint for a child is different from one for an adult. Children's models are made taking into account the structural features of the baby's legs. Such clamps must be selected correctly; they should not compress the limb, otherwise deformation, muscle atrophy, and circulatory disorders in the lower extremities with subsequent complications may occur.

For children

For children, rigid restraints are usually prescribed for pathologies such as cerebral palsy, rickets, as well as for various pathologies of the development of the lower extremities. A correctly selected splint will help fix the leg in a physiological position and achieve normal bone growth without deformation.

How to choose an ankle splint

In order for the fixative to be useful and help get rid of the pathology faster, you need to choose it correctly. First of all, it is recommended to consult an orthopedist to make sure that a brace is necessary in a particular case. It is quite possible that the patient will need to have a cast applied, or an orthosis can be used; only a doctor can give an exact answer after examining the leg.

Leather splint

You can purchase a brace at a regular orthopedic store; to do this, you need to know which model you need and measure your foot size with a centimeter tape. For ankle injuries, a functional brace is indicated to allow movement of the metatarsal bones. If the doctor considers it necessary to completely fix the joint and the entire foot, then wearing a non-weight-bearing model will be prescribed.

Attention! If the splint is too large, it will not be able to properly fix the joint, and the treatment will be ineffective. A small retainer will cause the appearance of calluses and interfere with blood circulation in the legs.

To choose the correct product size, you need to measure your foot length and ankle circumference. When choosing a product in a store, you must try it on, especially if the measurements obtained do not correspond to the data on the packaging

Popular manufacturers and prices

Let's look at several popular models with photos and their cost:

The Orlett HAS-301 model is used for paresis and after fractures, the cost is 11,000 rubles.
The Fosta fs2202 model is used for inflammatory pathologies of joints and during the rehabilitation period after fractures, cost from 7,000 rubles.
The Ogonyok THO-20 model is intended for the treatment of cerebral palsy, as well as ankle injuries, the cost is 2,800 rubles.

The cost of the model depends on the manufacturer, the store’s pricing policy and the complexity of the tutor. Thus, Russian models are cheaper than German and American ones, but at the same time perform their function perfectly. Expensive models are made from the highest quality materials; they will last longer, but this is not always relevant for the patient if the course of treatment is only 2 weeks.

How to use

It is necessary to put on a rigid retainer taking into account the following recommendations:

before using the product, you need to take a warm bath and massage around the affected joint;
You need to wear a cotton sock under the splint.

While using the splint, you should not apply any creams or lotions to the skin; only after removing the product, it is recommended to wipe the reddened areas of the skin with formic alcohol, first rinse the leg under water and dry it with a towel.

If the disease is mild and movement in the ankle joint is possible, put on the product while standing. It is necessary to work with the foot and knee joint, gradually limiting movements and fastening the brace. If pain appears in the ankle area, you need to loosen the upper part of the product and work with your knee, and then fix the leg again. In case of severe pathologies, the model is put on, working only with the knee, the ankle must remain motionless.

If there is a feeling of numbness, tingling, pain in the leg, and the tips of the fingers turn blue, then the splint is fastened too tightly, it needs to be loosened, otherwise the blood circulation in the leg will be impaired.

The duration of wearing the splint depends on the severity of the disease, on average it is 10-14 days, and during the day it must be regularly removed and massaged, and exercise therapy exercises prescribed by the doctor must be performed. You can keep your leg in a splint for no more than 8 hours, this applies to the period of night sleep.

How to care

It is necessary to wipe the splint every day with a clean cloth. It is recommended to wash it by hand, with laundry soap or liquid detergent. If severe dirt appears, you need to rub the stain with soap and leave for 15 minutes, then rinse well with water. Do not use stain removers, bleaches, or washing powders.

Attention! When cleaning the product, you need to make sure that there is no allergic reaction to the detergent.

The product must be dried in a horizontal position away from sunlight and heat sources. Do not wash or wring out the splint in a washing machine, as this may lead to deformation and breakage.

The technical translator's reference book states that a splint is an orthopedic product that ensures immobility of joints or limb segments in case of various types of pathologies. The words “orthosis” and “fixator” can be considered synonyms for this word. Splints are produced from articulated sleeves or in the form of a shoe.

An ankle splint is prescribed quite often. This part of the leg often suffers from sudden movements, loads, falls and impacts. Both adults and children can be injured. But tutors are prescribed not only in this case. We will try to tell you more about the features of children's orthoses.

Types of tutors

The ankle joint can be fixed with a soft fabric bandage, a semi-rigid structure made of belts, lacing and rigid inserts, as well as a rigid splint. Fixation in this case is achieved as follows:

using standard splint models;
splints made to individual measurements;
prefabricated modular splints assembled on the patient’s leg.

For children, it is especially important that the product is hypoallergenic and lightweight. The ankle splint can be made of thick genuine leather or medical plastic. But the main difference is not in the material used, but in the method of application. Ankle foot orthoses are used in two ways:

Fixing splint. It is used mainly at night to protect the joint from unconscious movements during sleep.
The splint is dynamic. Used during the day to relieve pain while walking.

The reason for choosing an orthosis for a child, as we have already said, may not only be an ankle injury. To understand the materials, design features and rules for using the product, you need to consult a specialist.

Who is prescribed tutors?

For adult patients, doctors prescribe fixation of the ankle joint with a rigid splint in the following cases:

If there is a fracture of the ankle, lower leg, or foot bones, a rigid splint can be used instead of a plaster cast.
If the patient has a dislocation or subluxation of the foot, the splint facilitates the rehabilitation period.
If the patient is diagnosed with arthritis or arthrosis. In this case, the orthosis helps reduce the load and reduce pain.
In case of sprains and ruptures of ligaments and tendons, a splint on the ankle joint immobilizes and accelerates healing.
If, as a result of a stroke, the patient has paralysis of the foot and leg.
If the patient is overweight, which has led to instability of the ankle joint.
During the recovery period after surgery. In this case, the device not only immobilizes, but also relieves swelling and helps strengthen the ligamentous apparatus.

A splint for children is prescribed for injuries and after operations. But, besides this, the list can be supplemented with the following problems:

Flat feet and hallux valgus.
Clubfoot.
Rickets.
Ankle dysplasia.
Shortening of one limb.

Children's restraints

The use of children's splints as prescribed by a doctor alleviates the child's condition, helps to stop and correct pathological conditions of the foot and lower leg, and enables special children with cerebral palsy and problems of the musculoskeletal system to get on their feet and learn to walk. It is very important for children diagnosed with cerebral palsy to use splints at night until the age of three. During this period, the child grows rapidly, and joint deformation may begin.

Children's ankle splints can come in different heights and sizes. Depending on the complexity of the child’s condition, models are made up to the knee and to the groin. The foot in the device is fixed at a certain angle so that the child holds it and does not turn in or out.

Parents need to monitor the position of the heel in the splint. It should rest and fit snugly against the wall.

Many models of children's splints are designed for daytime wear with orthopedic shoes.

How to choose a standard tutor

If a splint for a child is made from an individual cast or from thermoplastic (turbocast), then there are no difficulties with the size. But if you need to buy a standard product, then it is important not to make mistakes in the measurements. Doing it yourself when selecting an orthosis is very risky. You should entrust the taking of the necessary measurements to a specialist.

If the child has grown, but the splint model does not need to be changed, then specialists select a new product based on measurements, guided by size tables.

Children's splint made from turbocast

Turbocast is a low-temperature thermoplastic. The material has shape memory and is the latest development in the field of manufacturing various types of fasteners. The use of turbocast splints helps to correct the position of the joints and develop the correct movement patterns.

Making such a splint takes about 30 minutes. The doctor gives the leg the required position. Heats the material above 60° C, cools it to 40° C and places it on the ankle, giving it the desired shape. During the formation of the splint, the material is very plastic, but it cools down in about 5-7 minutes.

Application of bandages

Minor ankle injuries in children do not require too rigid fixation. In this case, an elastic bandage may be prescribed. Bandages for easy fixation are made of special jersey and neoprene. Neoprene elements retain heat, accelerate blood flow, and warm the damaged area. But such an ankle brace can only be used by those who are not allergic to synthetics. Often children's sensitive skin does not like such materials.

Some types of bandages are made as an elastic bandage with Velcro ties, some have a more complex design. There are models with laces and silicone inserts that are designed to enhance compression. This ankle brace is recommended for young and experienced athletes to minimize stress.

How to put on a bandage or splint correctly

Before putting on a bandage or splint, the leg should be washed with warm water and lightly massaged. The product can be worn on a thin seamless cotton sock.

Products for easy fixation (bandages) are worn while standing, splints - in a sitting position. During treatment, warming ointments, body lotions and creams should not be used.

If you need to choose a bandage or splint, the price will depend on the complexity of the design, the material used and the popularity of the brand, so its range can range from 1000 to 9700 rubles. But do not forget that serious brands have been earning their popularity among customers for decades, and it is based on successful treatment and positive reviews from patients and doctors.

There are many types of special fixation devices used in orthopedics. One of them is an ankle splint. It is used to immobilize a limb for further recovery. Such a device is used in the postoperative period, providing fixation of the leg when walking and preventing injury during sleep. Various models of such products are capable of immobilizing one joint or several, depending on the severity of the leg injury. Splints are also used for foot deformities. in particular, with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy.

Models of splints for the ankle joint

There are several classifications of such products - standard and made to order. Standard models can be purchased at any store that sells orthopedic accessories. There are prefabricated modular splints that are assembled directly on the patient’s leg. Ankle splints are made from genuine leather, low-temperature or regular plastic. Depending on their purpose, such orthopedic devices are divided into several types:

The dynamic (functional) fixator is designed to minimize pain when walking. This type of retainer is usually worn during the daytime.
A fixing (non-load-bearing) model is worn at night to protect the injured leg from inaccurate movements during sleep.
Stop holders. This product is used, for example, for foot drop.

Separately, we can say about ankle braces for children. A children's shin splint differs from a product for an adult patient. The fact is that a child’s leg has its own structural nuances that must be taken into account when making the device. If the splint is chosen incorrectly, the foot may become deformed. Such a retainer should be lightweight and hypoallergenic. A pediatrician is responsible for selecting a children's ankle splint.