a. Obtain Materials. You will need two rigid objects, padding, and securing
materials.
(1) Rigid objects. Tree branches, poles, boards, sticks, unloaded rifle, or
similar objects can be used. The rigid objects should be straight, long enough to extend
beyond the joint above the fracture site and beyond the joint below the fracture site.
Preferably, one should be long enough to extend from the groin to the foot and the other
should extend from above the hip to the foot (see figure 4-4).
(2) Padding. Padding is needed to keep the rigid objects from rubbing
against the skin on the injured limb. Blankets, jackets, ponchos, extra clothing, shelter
halves, leafy plants, or the casualty's own clothing (trouser leg) can be used as padding.
The padding helps to prevent excessive pressure that could interfere with blood
circulation.
(3) Securing materials. The rigid objects and padding can be secured with
cravats made from muslin bandages or other folded material. Rigid objects can also be
secured with strips of clothing, belts, pistol belts, bandoleers, or similar materials.
Narrow materials such as wire and cord should not be used since they could interfere
with blood circulation.
b. Position the Securing Materials. Push the securing materials (cravats, etc.)
under natural body curvatures (ankle, knee, and back). Then gently move the securing
materials up or down the limb until they are in proper position.
(1) Place securing materials under the ankle, at the top of the boot, below
the knee, above the knee, at the hip, and at where the top of the long splint will rest.
Place a second cravat so that it is under both ankles.
(2) There should be at least two cravats above the fracture site and at least
two cravats below the fracture site (above the upper joint, between the upper joint and
the fracture, between the fracture and the lower joint, and below the lower joint).
(3) Do not place securing material directly under the suspected fracture site.
The pressure caused by the securing material when it is tightened could result in
additional injury to the limb.
c. Position the Rigid Objects. Place the shorter rigid object on the inside of
the injured leg and the longer one on the outside. Position them so the joint above the
fracture and the joint below the fracture can be immobilized. Make sure the end of the
inner rigid object is not pressing against the groin. Pressure on sensitive areas can
interfere with blood circulation.
MD0533
4-7