Prompt Injury Splinting in Tampa, FL

Physician making notes on handheld deviceA splint is an orthopedic device that can be used to protect, support, and immobilize a damaged bone, joint, ligament, or tendon as it heals. Unlike a cast—which is custom-made of fiberglass or plaster, molded to the shape of an injured limb, and removable only by a doctor—a splint is more flexible and easier to use. For instance, many splints consist of a hard “half-cast” that does not fully wrap around the limb. Instead, the splint is secured with elastic or Velcro straps that allow it to be adjusted as needed to accommodate swelling and removed for bathing or sleeping.

The team at South Tampa Immediate Care is experienced in all aspects of urgent care medicine, including the diagnosis and treatment of sprains and fractures. Our South Tampa injury clinic is fully equipped to provide comprehensive services for non-emergency injuries, including on-site X-rays and splinting.

When Is Splinting Used Instead of Casting?

In general, splinting is preferable to casting if the area surrounding the injury is swollen, mainly because a splint is easier to tighten or loosen if needed. However, once the swelling subsides, a splint may be replaced with a cast, which can provide better protection and support as the injury heals.

Splinting can also be used as a standalone treatment for many common, relatively minor injuries, such as:

  • Stress fractures – A tiny crack in a bone caused by overuse or repetitive stress
  • Simple fractures – A break in a bone with no damage to the skin or surrounding soft tissues
  • Greenstick fractures – An incomplete break in a bone that occurs after it bends and cracks (most commonly seen in children)
  • Sprains – An overstretched or torn ligament that connects two bones

In addition to fractures and sprains, splinting may be used to treat osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and tennis elbow.

At South Tampa Immediate Care, we do our best to ensure a streamlined patient experience. After you arrive at our walk-in clinic, we will promptly evaluate your injury and take X-rays if necessary. Then, if appropriate, we will splint your injured limb and refer you to an orthopedic specialist for follow-up.

To learn more about splinting or our other urgent care services, contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL, today.