How should limbs be immobilized while splinting?

When splinting an injury, it's essential to immobilize the joint above and below the injury to provide adequate support and prevent further damage. This approach stabilizes the entire limb, minimizing any movement that could exacerbate the injury. By immobilizing both the proximal and distal joints, you ensure that the injured area is kept secure and protected, which is crucial for effectively managing pain and preventing complications such as worsening of the injury or associated fractures.

In contrast, focusing solely on the injured area without addressing the adjacent joints may lead to ineffective stabilization and allow for movement that could hinder healing. Immobilizing the entire limb might seem comprehensive, but it could restrict unnecessary movement and blood flow and is not specifically addressing the injury's stabilization needs. Lastly, immobilizing only the joint does not provide sufficient stability to the injured area, potentially resulting in complications or increased discomfort. Therefore, immobilizing the joint above and below the injury is the most effective method in the context of splinting.