About cricket pad splints
The cricket pad splint does the following:
- provides protection
- fixes your knee in extension (a straight position)
- restricts some movements (such as twisting or bending).
When we fit your splint for the first time, we will show you how to put it on and take it off.
Your splint is for your use only.
Important
Always wear your splint, except when you examine or wash your skin.
Do not stand for long periods of time immediately after your injury. This will help you to avoid an increase of swelling.
Try to keep your injured leg raised whenever you are sitting or lying down.
Fitting it
To fit the cricket pad splint yourself, sit upright with your leg up on a sofa or bed, and follow these instructions.
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Place your leg on top of splint, with the wider part of it around your thigh. The opening in the middle should line up with your kneecap (patella). |
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Pull the two sides together. Fasten them by threading the Velcro straps through the buckles. Fold them back and stick them in place. Make sure the straps are not too tight. You must be able to easily place a finger under each strap. If you cannot do this, loosen the strap slightly. If your brace is slipping down, use these steps to re-adjust it. |
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Washing and skin care
Washing
Follow this guidance to wash your leg.
- You must not get your splint wet. This means you cannot bath or shower while wearing your splint. We recommend strip washing (using a flannel or sponge for an all-body wash, without using a shower or bath). You can also buy a special protective bag or use a bin liner to protect the splint.
- To wash your leg, do the following:
- prop it up on the bed or sofa
- make sure you are supporting it in a straight position
- unfasten the splint straps
- wash your leg using a flannel or wet wipes
- make sure your skin is dry before you tighten the straps of the splint.
Skin care
Check your skin at least once a day when you are wearing your splint. Look out for the following:
- skin irritation
- red marks that do not fade after 10 to 20 minutes
- swelling
- increased pain
- increased numbness
- increased tingling.
Skin irritation
If your splint is irritating your skin, make sure it is fitted correctly. Use appropriate padding or dressing to protect your skin. (We can supply extra foam padding if needed.)
If you are worried about your skin
Get in touch with us (see Contacts) if you are concerned about the condition of your skin underneath the splint.
Contact information
Kingston Hospital Physiotherapy Outpatients
Telephone: