Traditional Sugar‑Tong Splint Immobilization Technique

Scope of Immobilization

• The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons describes the traditional sugar‑tong splint as a construct that immobilizes the elbow and forearm in addition to the wrist when treating distal radius fractures, providing comprehensive limb support. 1

• The same guideline notes that this long‑arm approach is routinely employed in initial fracture management, reflecting standard practice endorsed by the Academy. 2

• Evidence from the Academy’s 2022 review indicates that the sugar‑tong splint’s design purposefully includes elbow fixation to restrict forearm rotation and promote fracture stability. 3