Beginner and Advanced sessions will be offered concurrently.

Beginner session:

Target audience - This session is specifically designed for therapists who have less than 2 years of clinical experience. It aims to provide foundational knowledge and hands-on skills essential for those who are new to the field of splinting. Participants will benefit from a supportive learning environment that encourages questions and interaction, allowing them to build confidence as they develop their practical skills.

Splints- In this session, participants will learn about various types of splints including hand/forearm based thumb spica splints, which are crucial for immobilizing the thumb in cases of fracture or tendon injury. The wrist cock-up splint will also be covered, which is commonly used to support the wrist in a neutral position while allowing for finger movement. Additionally, the hand/forearm based ulnar gutter splint will be discussed, which is particularly effective for injuries to the ulnar side of the hand, such as fractures of the fifth metacarpal. Finally, the mallet finger splint will be introduced, which is specifically designed to treat injuries to the extensor tendon at the distal phalanx, thus facilitating proper healing and function.

Advanced session:

Target audience – This session targets experienced therapists who are looking to expand their skill set by practicing advanced techniques in splinting. Participants should have a solid understanding of basic splinting principles and be ready to delve into more complex applications. This session will focus on the intricacies of creating long arm and dynamic splints, which are particularly beneficial for patients requiring specialized support to regain functionality. Therapists attending this session will also explore splinting strategies aimed at improving motion in stiff joints, a common challenge in rehabilitation practice.

Splints - The advanced session will cover a variety of specialized splints including the Muenster splint, which is used for elbow immobilization while allowing for forearm rotation, making it ideal for certain types of fractures and post-operative care. The posterior elbow splint will also be addressed, focusing on its application in managing elbow injuries and promoting healing while minimizing stiffness. Additionally, participants will learn about dynamic radial nerve palsy splints, which are designed to facilitate movement and assist in the recovery of wrist and finger function for patients with radial nerve injuries. Lastly, the static progressive finger/wrist splint will be introduced, emphasizing its role in gradually increasing range of motion and aiding patients in their rehabilitation journey.