A splint is a temporary immobilization device used to stabilize a suspected injury before professional medical help can be obtained. Its primary function is to restrict movement of the injured joint and surrounding long bones, minimizing the risk of further soft tissue or bone damage. Applying a makeshift splint reduces movement-related pain and helps prevent a closed fracture from becoming open. This stabilization is intended only for immediate, short-term management.
Identifying When to Splint
Recognizing the signs that necessitate temporary knee stabilization is the first step in providing effective first aid. Severe, acute pain that makes movement unbearable is a strong indicator of a significant injury. Stabilization is immediately warranted if the individual cannot bear weight on the leg, or if there is an observable deformity or unnatural angulation of the knee.
A suspected fracture of the distal femur or proximal tibia, or a dislocation of the patella or tibiofemoral joint, requires careful immobilization. If there is an open wound with visible bone fragments or severe, uncontrolled bleeding, addressing the hemorrhage takes precedence. The immediate priority shifts to controlling blood loss and ensuring emergency services are contacted without delay.
Preparing Necessary Materials
A temporary knee splint requires three distinct categories of readily available, clean materials for proper construction.
Rigid Supports
These provide the structural integrity necessary to immobilize the limb.
- Tightly rolled magazines
- Sturdy cardboard
- Thin wooden boards
- Plastic sheeting
Padding
Padding is placed between the rigid supports and the skin to prevent pressure sores and increase comfort around bony prominences. Clean towels, folded blankets, or pieces of clothing can be used.
Securing Material
This material fastens the supports and padding around the leg. Strips of fabric, belts, neckties, or medical tape are suitable for this purpose.
Applying the Temporary Knee Splint
The application process begins by gently supporting the injured limb in the exact position it was found. Attempting to straighten or manipulate the joint can cause significant additional harm. The limb is generally stabilized as-is; only if the leg is bent at a severe angle that is clearly cutting off circulation should a minimal, slow attempt at realignment be considered.
Once the leg is supported, padding should be carefully placed around all bony areas, specifically above the kneecap and around the prominent portions of the lower thigh and upper shin. This cushioning prevents direct pressure from the rigid splinting materials onto the skin and underlying nerves. Rigid supports are then positioned alongside the leg, typically one on the outside and one on the inside.
The rigid supports must extend well beyond the joint itself, reaching from the upper thigh (femur) down past the calf (tibia and fibula). This ensures that both the joints above and below the knee are immobilized, preventing movement of the long bones that could shift a suspected fracture.
The securing material is then used to firmly, but not tightly, wrap the entire assembly in place. Ties must be applied in at least four distinct locations: two above the knee joint and two below it, avoiding the kneecap itself. Ensure the knots or wraps are secure enough to prevent slippage but not so tight that they compress underlying blood vessels or nerves.
Post-Application Safety Checks and Medical Care
Following the application of the temporary splint, immediate safety checks must be performed to ensure proper circulation and nerve function. The primary assessment involves checking the skin color, temperature, and sensation in the foot and toes, which are distal to the injury site. Pale or bluish skin, cold temperature, or numbness or tingling suggests the splint may be too tight, requiring immediate loosening of the securing material.
It is also advisable to check for a pulse in the foot, such as the dorsalis pedis artery, to confirm that blood flow is unrestricted. A temporary splint is a stabilization measure and does not constitute treatment for the injury. Secure professional medical attention without delay, either by calling emergency medical services or safely transporting the individual to the nearest emergency room.