If you’ve suffered a fracture or other acute injury, you don’t require immediate surgery. When that’s the case, we care for you in our Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center outpatient office. Those types of injuries can be quite painful, we know, so we always strive to provide speedy office appointments – frequently same-day or next-day scheduling. As part of our advanced, nonsurgical treatment of fractures, we use thermoforming fracture brace to ensure a custom and comfortable fit.
What Is Thermoforming Fracture Care?
Thermoforming fracture care involves using heat-molded, medical-grade plastic to create a customized splint or brace designed specifically for your injury. Unlike a traditional plaster cast, these splints are lightweight, breathable, and can be quickly molded to fit the exact shape of your limb. The result is a more comfortable healing experience, with less hassle and more flexibility.
How Thermoforming Works
This process is quick, safe, and done right in our office. Here’s how it works in four easy steps:
- Heat Activation: A thermoplastic material is gently heated until it becomes soft and pliable.
- Custom Molding: Your orthopedic specialist shapes the material around the injured area for a snug, precise fit.
- Rapid Hardening: As the material cools, it hardens into a durable, supportive brace.
- Adjustments as Needed: If your swelling decreases or your healing progresses, we can reheat and remold the splint; no need for a new one.
These custom-molded braces are not only functional but also more comfortable and hygienic than traditional casts.
Conditions We Treat with Thermoforming
Thermoforming is ideal for a variety of fractures and injuries, particularly those in areas that benefit from precise support and flexibility. We often recommend it for:
- Wrist fractures
- Hand and finger injuries
- Stable forearm fractures
- Pediatric fractures
- Sports-related injuries
- Certain lower limb injuries (depending on location and severity)
For unstable or complex fractures, traditional casting or surgical intervention may be more appropriate. Our team will assess your needs and recommend the best treatment for your specific case.
Benefits of Thermoforming Fracture Care
There are many reasons patients and providers alike are choosing thermoforming over traditional casting. These braces are significantly lighter than standard casts, making them more comfortable to wear, especially over long periods. Many thermoformed splints are water-resistant, allowing for easier hygiene and even limited showering in some cases. The breathability of the material also helps prevent skin irritation and unpleasant odors.
Because each brace is molded specifically to the patient, it offers a precise fit that supports healing while allowing for a more natural range of motion. Perhaps most importantly, thermoforming splints can be adjusted as your healing progresses, meaning you won’t need to start over with a new cast if your swelling decreases or your needs change. This makes thermoforming particularly appealing for children, athletes, and anyone looking for a more convenient recovery experience.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’ve experienced a fracture or injury and are looking for a more comfortable, convenient way to heal, thermoforming fracture care might be the right option for you. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in Charlottesville, VA, we’re here to provide innovative care with a personal touch. Call us today to schedule your appointment or book online to get started.
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Contact UsWhat Our Patients Say
I was impressed with the quality of service and the caring people throughout the visit, from the receptionist to the doctor seen. They truly care and are honest and professional.
We chose Charlottesville Orthopedic for my husband who was having knee issues, they are so advanced in options and explain all options!! Professional Staff !!
I had a great experience with a surgery and with unrelated physical therapy. I highly recommend the office. Everyone, including the front desk staff, nursing assistants, physical therapist, and doctor, have all been great.
