Feet are complicated structures. With 26 bones in each foot, there are plenty of opportunities for fractures, dislocations, and other injuries that can severely impair a person’s mobility. To complicate matters even further, the shape of the foot is such that it can often be difficult to splint if it is injured.
Fortunately, with a little insight and a few household items, you construct a functional splint that can immobilize the foot and make it easier (and safer) to head to the hospital.
Evaluate the Foot
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Before applying any type of immobilization to the foot, it is important that you evaluate and determine the extent of the injury. There are three main things you need to assess:
- Check the blood circulation by feeling the temperature of the foot and comparing it with the uninjured foot. If it is colder, it suggests there may be a circulatory problem.
- Check for sensation by touching a toe and asking the injured person to identify which toe was touched. Make note if there is any numbness or tingling.
- Check for movement by asking the person to wiggle his or her toes.
- Check for bruising as this can help identify where the injury is.
Be sure to report these to the doctor or nurse when arriving at the hospital.