Hand Network hand therapy

The dog days of summer are certainly here! That means taking a bit more care of your thermoplastic splint. Remember that one of the fabulous properties of low temperature thermoplastics is their lower melting temperature. so on days like these, don't leave your splint on the dash or seat of your car...or poolside ....or laying out on the beach.
Should it start to soften, your best option is to get it out of direct sunlight and let it harden again. Thermoplastics also tend to get very sticky when exposed to dry heat, so the more you handle the material while pliable, the more likely the shape will be altered. Let it cool entirely before trying it back on, and if it has changed shape, contact your hand therapist to have it fixed.
Also, remember that in this type of heat, you will perspire more, which means the splint will require more frequent washing in cool water with a good anti-bacterial soap. An absorbent thin cotton sock can be of great comfort to reduce moisture build-up; or try baking soda or talcum powder or even a thin absorbent feminine napkin has absorbent properties. Bottom line.... take care of your splint and your skin in these extreme temperatures.

Who says splints have to be boring?

Living in Canada, the winter months can make cold intolerance exceptionally difficult, but sometimes after a hand injury, people complain of discomfort or pain with even minor exposure to cold, such as handling a cold drink or frozen foods or just "cooler" evenings. People describe feeling pain, stiffness, pins and needles, tingling or changes in skin colour.

Learn more about intolerance to cold here:

http://www.handnetwork.ca/intolerance-to-cold/

Intolerance to cold, especially post injury - Hand Network Intolerance to cold, especially post injuryHand conditions//admin//January 20, 2013//1 commentBy: Pam Ball, BSc OTReg(On)Cold intolerance or cold sensitivity is a frequent complaint after a hand injury. It is an abnormal reaction to cold and an exaggerated response to what others interpret as a norm...