Archibald finalist Tsering Hannaford’s self-portrait ‘Meditation on time’, showcases the subject wearing a wrist brace, and facilitates a discussion on the importance of braces & splinting.
Hannaford’s artwork portrays herself wearing a wrist brace following an undescribed wrist injury. In her artwork, she details the reasoning and consequences of wearing a brace; moreover, her artwork highlights that splints & braces remain a pillar of hand therapy and are crucial in the treatment of wrist injuries.
Tsering Hannaford, Meditation on time (a left-handed self-portrait), oil on canvas. Photo: Jenni Carter / Art Gallery of New South Wales
What are Splints & Braces used for ?
In hand therapy, splints and braces are utilised to protect and support healing structures in the hand & wrist. Splints and braces work by immobilising or resting the injured body-part, enabling bony & soft-tissue structures to heal. These supports are utilised for a variety of injuries & conditions, from broken bones to carpal tunnel syndrome – braces & splints remain a core tenant of hand therapy treatment.
What are the different types of Splints & Braces?
These supports come in a variety of materials, shapes, and sizes depending on their purpose and function. Many ‘off the shelf’ braces, as demonstrated in Hannaford’s work, come in 2 or 3 sizes, utilise elastic polyester and a metal plate that provides linear support & protection. Comparatively, splints are made of thermoplastic – they are custom made for each individual and provide circumferential support & protection to allow for healing, support & protection.
What we do at Hand Therapy Group
Whilst we stock and provide off-the-shelf braces, we often prefer making custom splints. Taking only 15 minutes, therapists can fabricate a splint during your session, ensuring a custom and timely fit. Our splints are lightweight, durable and can be removed as required, ensuring maximal comfort and support for the duration of your injury. If you’re sick of the itchiness & scratchiness of an ‘off the shelf’ brace, book an appointment and enquire about our custom-made splint designs.
