Ankle Stirrup Fiberglass Splint Kit — Ankle Sprain & Fracture Treatment
The modern fiberglass replacement for the traditional plaster stirrup ankle splint. If you’ve been searching for a plaster stirrup ankle splint, plaster ankle splint, plaster U splint, or ankle plaster cast — this is the upgraded fiberglass version that clinicians now use instead. Same U-shaped lateral ankle immobilization. Lighter weight. Faster setting. More durable than plaster.
This complete professional-grade kit includes pre-padded synthetic fiberglass splint material, self-adhesive bandages, and synthetic padding for quick, effective treatment of ankle sprains, fractures, and post-operative care — with no additional materials needed. Sets in just 5–7 minutes.
Medical Uses & Indications
- Ankle Sprains — Lateral and medial ligament injuries
- Ankle Strains — Muscle and tendon injuries
- Shin Splints — Medial tibial stress syndrome
- Hairline Fractures — Stress fractures of the ankle and lower leg
- Ankle Fractures — Malleolar fractures requiring immobilization
- Post-operative Immobilization — After ankle surgery or procedures
How Stirrup Splints Work
The stirrup splint — sometimes called a plaster stirrup splint, plaster U splint, or lateral ankle plaster splint in older clinical terminology — prevents inward and outward movement at the ankle (inversion and eversion). A stirrup ankle splint fits around the sides of the lower leg and foot like a stirrup, providing excellent lateral stability.
The posterior ankle splint keeps the ankle at a 90-degree angle and goes on the back of the leg. Sometimes, the posterior splint and stirrup splint are applied together for even more comprehensive support. Historically made from plaster of Paris, modern clinical practice has shifted to fiberglass — which sets faster, weighs significantly less, and is far more durable.
Key Features
- Pre-Padded Design: Padding already built into splint material — no extra layers or stockinette needed
- Quick-Setting: Hardens in just 5–7 minutes for fast patient care
- Easy Application: Wet, trim, form, and wrap — simple 4-step process
- Complete Kit: Includes splint, self-adhesive bandages, cast padding, and gloves
- Professional Quality: Same materials used by orthopedic specialists and emergency departments
- U-Shape Design: Provides superior lateral ankle stability
- Prevents Inversion/Eversion: Stops harmful side-to-side ankle movement during healing
- Radiolucent: Compatible with X-ray imaging without removal
- Color Options: White, Black, and Hot Pink bandage colors available
Kit Contents by Size
| Size | Splint Dimensions | Self-Adhesive Bandage | Synthetic Padding |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child 6–12 | 3" × 35" | 2 Rolls 3" | 1 Roll 2" |
| Teen 13–17 | 4" × 30" | 2 Rolls 3" | 1 Roll 3" |
| Adult 18+ | 5" × 30" | 2 Rolls 3" | 1 Roll 4" |
* Trim the splint to the correct length for the individual patient.
Application Instructions
Video Tutorial
Why Buy Direct Instead of at Your Doctor’s Office?
Purchasing your ankle splint kit directly from OrthoTape offers significant advantages over getting it at your doctor’s office or emergency room. Emergency room splint applications can cost $200–500 or more when billed through insurance, while our complete kit costs a fraction of that. Our splint materials are the same professional-grade products — if not better — than what your doctor or ER uses, meeting or exceeding all industry standards.
Many medical offices have limited inventory and may only stock basic white bandages, while we offer multiple color options. By ordering from us, you get exactly what you need at a fraction of the cost, with fast shipping directly to your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ankle stirrup splint and how does it differ from a posterior ankle splint?
An ankle stirrup splint (also called a U-splint) is a fiberglass slab shaped like a U that wraps around both sides of the ankle and lower leg, preventing inversion and eversion (side-to-side movement). A posterior ankle splint is applied to the back of the leg and holds the ankle at 90°, preventing plantar flexion. The stirrup splint provides lateral stability while allowing some up-and-down movement, making it ideal for ankle sprains. The two are often combined for maximum immobilization in fracture cases.
When is a stirrup splint used instead of a posterior ankle splint?
A stirrup splint is preferred when lateral ankle stability is the primary concern — such as for Grade I–II ankle sprains, mild malleolar fractures, and ankle strains. A posterior splint is preferred when the ankle needs to be held at 90° to prevent plantar flexion, such as for Achilles tendon injuries, distal tibia fractures, and severe sprains. For significant fractures or post-operative care, both splints are often applied together.
How long does this fiberglass splint take to set?
This fiberglass splint sets in approximately 5–7 minutes after activation with water and reaches full strength within 20–30 minutes. During the setting period, the ankle should be held in the desired position without movement to ensure proper molding.
How long do I need to wear an ankle splint after a sprain?
Grade I sprains typically require 1–2 weeks of support. Grade II sprains may require 2–4 weeks of splinting followed by a walking boot and physical therapy. Grade III sprains may require 4–6 weeks or longer. Always follow your physician’s specific protocol — returning to activity too soon is the leading cause of re-injury and chronic ankle instability.
What size should I order?
Child 6–12 (3" × 35" splint, 2 rolls 3" bandage, 1 roll 2" pad), Teen 13–17 (4" × 30" splint, 2 rolls 3" bandage, 1 roll 3" pad), or Adult 18+ (5" × 30" splint, 2 rolls 3" bandage, 1 roll 4" pad). If between sizes, size up for better lateral coverage around the ankle.
Explore Other Fiberglass Splint Kits
| Splint Kit | Best For |
|---|---|
| Posterior Ankle Splint Kit | Ankle fractures & sprains (posterior support) |
| Volar Wrist Splint Kit | Wrist fractures & sprains |
| Volar/Dorsal Wrist Short Arm Splint Kit | Short arm immobilization |
| Ulnar Gutter Splint Kit | Boxer fractures (4th/5th metacarpal) |
FSA/HSA Eligible
Shipping: Ships from NJ or CA warehouse in 2–3 business days.
OrthoTape private label product. Authentic product. Use as directed by a licensed healthcare provider.
Professional-Grade Quality | FSA/HSA Eligible | Fast US Shipping
This product should be applied by a trained medical professional or for educational training. Always consult a doctor before use for proper diagnosis and treatment. Ankle injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional to rule out serious fractures or ligament damage. If the product shows signs of damage, stop use and contact a healthcare professional.
Call: 800-580-9887 (M–F 9:30–5:00 EST)