The concept of ferula , which comes from the Latin word ferŭla , has several uses. One of the most frequent appears in the field of medicine , where the term is used to name the external element that allows a part of the body to be immobilized within the framework of a certain treatment.
Splints are structures that can be made from plaster, wood, metal, or other materials. They are generally used to treat fractures, although they can also be used in rehabilitation, as a complement to surgeries or in dental treatments.
Using a splint, it is possible to immobilize or support a body part. To treat a dislocation or fracture , for example, the doctor may indicate the temporary use of a splint to keep the bone or joint in position. When the use of the splint is extended over time, it can help consolidate or heal injured tissue.
Correction of a deformity can also be achieved with a splint. In the field of orthopedics , meanwhile, there are splints for permanent use that are called orthoses .
Dentists, on the other hand, resort to dental splints that are produced with resins or plastics to cover the dental arches. These splints can be used to prevent tooth movement after orthodontic treatment, to change the person's occlusion or as protection.
Caring for the splint requires taking certain precautions, which are usually indicated by the health professional to their patients as soon as treatment begins. If we take the case of the splint used to immobilize a limb of the body, for example, the better we preserve it, the sooner and more effective our recovery will be. Let's look at some tips for maintaining the splint:
* prevent it from becoming excessively moist. It is important to understand that moisture weakens the splint material . Many people apply cloths soaked in water to the injured areas for several hours with the intention of relieving the pain, but they do not realize that the skin can be affected by the lack of oxygen;
* similar to the previous point, it is necessary to protect the splint during bathing, and for that there are specific products that we can buy, although we can also use plastic bags attached with good quality adhesive tape;
* Do not walk while leaning on the splint, at least until it is absolutely dry and hard. Each material has different drying times, which is why it is recommended to ask professionals how long we should wait before subjecting it to such pressure;
* the inside of the splint must be clean at all times. If you are on one foot this becomes especially difficult, so we must avoid dirt or sand surfaces , in addition to keeping our rest room in good condition;
* Do not use sharp or pointed objects to scratch under the splint, something very common when dealing with annoying itching, as this can damage it;
* Another normal practice to soothe the itching is the use of deodorant or talcum powder, and this is harmful since it generates moisture and dirt that cannot be easily removed. In a case like this, it is preferable to call the doctor;
* Do not alter the shape of the splint. For example, there are patients who trim the edges or tear off parts that cause discomfort or because they notice that the skin around the structure has become red. Once again, it is recommended to consult a doctor;
* Inspect the splint regularly to detect soft parts or cracks, which should be attended to by professionals as soon as possible to prevent them from worsening.
An instrument that was used to hit students as a punishment and the power that is exercised with despotism are also called a splint.
The ferula or canaheja , finally, is a plant that can measure nearly two meters, belonging to the family group of umbellifers.