Exposed Digits Increase Weight Bearing and Alter Sub-Bandage Pressures in Dogs with Forelimb Splints

Introduction: Some splinting instructions recommend leaving the distal toes exposed to monitor for swelling, whereas others recommend extending the splint past the end of the digits. The goal of this study was 1. To evaluate the difference in weight bearing in a toes-in splint versus a toes-out splint, and 2. To determine the difference in sub-bandage pressures between the groups. We hypothesized that (1) weight-bearing would not be different between the two splints, (2) sub-bandage pressures would be distributed higher on the distal digits in the toes-out splint and pressures would be more evenly distributed across the paw in the toes-in splint.

Materials and Methods: A random forelimb of 10 dogs was bandaged with a splint that left the digits exposed and again with a splint that encompassed the digits. Data were recorded using sub-bandage pressure sensors and pressure platform gait analysis.

Results: The sub-bandage pressures were distributed unevenly in the toes-out group with high pressures distally in the exposed toes (p < 0.001), and there was a significant increase in peak vertical force during weight bearing when a dog’s digits were exposed.

Discussion/Conclusion: Leaving the distal aspect of digits three and four exposed by a splint results in better weight bearing but also creates a sub-bandage pressure increase on the toes relative to the rest of the paw implying force transfer through the bones of the limb rather than the splint. These results would suggest that splint length be a conscious consideration when constructing a splint based on the needs of each patient.

Acknowledgment

Funding is provided by the Tata Orthopedic Research Endowment.

 

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Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025