What materials are used in splints and casts?
Fiberglass or plaster materials form the hard supportive layer in the splint or cast. Fiberglass is lighter in weight, longer wearing, and “breathes” better than plaster. Plaster is less expensive than fiberglass and for some uses, shapes better than fiberglass. Both materials come in strips or rolls, which are dipped in water and applied over a layer of cotton or synthetic padding covering the injured area. X-rays to check the healing process of an injured arm or leg within a splint or cast penetrate or “see through” fiberglass better than plaster.
