StatPearls, LLC

  • Clinical Reasoning
  • Splints
  • Traction

Joint Immobilization

Joint immobilization is a fundamental component of acute musculoskeletal care and is widely used in prehospital and emergency department settings. Musculoskeletal injuries account for a substantial proportion of emergency medical service calls and emergency department visits, making early stabilization a critical intervention. Effective immobilization stabilizes suspected fractures or dislocations, minimizes motion at the injured site, and reduces the risk of further skeletal, neurologic, or soft-tissue injury during patient movement and transport. Immobilization also plays an important role in pain management by limiting painful motion and supporting injured structures. A wide range of techniques and devices may be used depending on the injury pattern and clinical context, including slings, rigid and soft splints, traction devices, and air or vacuum splints. Appropriate selection and application require an understanding of injury mechanisms, anatomic considerations, and potential complications associated with inadequate or improper stabilization. Through this course, the participant develops a structured understanding of the indications, selection strategies, and proper application of commonly used immobilization techniques. Emphasis is placed on the clinical reasoning behind device selection, recognition of complications associated with insufficient stabilization, and adherence to best practices for patient safety and comfort. The course highlights the importance of collaboration among interprofessional teams, including prehospital healthcare professionals, emergency clinicians, nurses, orthopedic specialists, and rehabilitation professionals. Effective communication and coordination among team members support timely interventions, consistent reassessment, and appropriate transitions of care. Strengthening competence in early stabilization and interprofessional collaboration enhances functional recovery, reduces complications, and improves overall patient…

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsNursingUp to 1.5 creditsPharmacyUp to 1.5 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABOS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABA — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABPMR — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1.5 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABPMR — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 8 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1.5 credits
  • MOC · Up to 1.5 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left