Questions and answers

The questions we are asked most often by therapists, nurses and family carers. If yours is not here, write to us.

Who is the Carrot Splint for?

Adults whose hand has closed into a fist because of a neurological condition such as stroke, brain injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease or advanced dementia, where the palm can no longer be reached, cleaned or protected. It is used by occupational therapists, nurses and care staff, and by family carers at home under the guidance of a health professional.

Will it work if the hand is completely closed?

Yes. That is what the Carrot is designed for. It goes into the hand deflated and is drawn in with the placement wand, so it does not need the fingers to be opened first. Foam rolls and rigid splints both need a partly open hand before they can be fitted.

Does it hurt?

It should not. The Carrot is inflated a little at a time, usually two or three squeezes of the bulb, and you stop as soon as the fingers lift from the palm. The hand is never forced open. If the person shows any sign of discomfort, let some air out.

How long should it stay in the hand?

The instructions do not set a fixed time. Follow the advice of the treating clinician, who will take the condition of the hand and skin into account. Check the skin every time the Carrot is removed.

How do I know it is inflated enough?

Stop when the fingers have lifted away from the palm and the skin can be reached. There is no need to remove every wrinkle from the cover. Over the following weeks the Carrot can be inflated a little further as the hand opens.

Can I use it on either hand?

Yes. The Carrot is one size, for adults, and fits either hand.

Is it suitable for children?

The Carrot is indicated for adults. Ask the treating clinician about children.

Can it be used with Dupuytren's contracture?

No. The Carrot is for contractures of neurological origin. It is not intended for contractures of connective-tissue origin such as Dupuytren's, or for hands with open wounds or unstable fractures.

How do I clean it?

Rinse the Carrot in warm soapy water and let it dry. Hand-wash the cloth cover and air-dry it. A second cover is supplied so one is always ready while the other dries.

How long does a Carrot last?

With normal daily use and care it is designed to last for years. Replacement Carrots and accessory packs are sold separately so a kit stays in use.

What is in the kit?

One inflatable Carrot, two cloth covers with progress markings, one inflator bulb and two placement wands.

Is it a medical device?

Yes. The Carrot Splint is a CE marked, Class I, non-sterile, reusable medical device, placed on the EU market by Kettering Surgical (Ireland) Limited.

Do I need a prescription?

No. The Carrot can be bought by anyone. We recommend it is used under the guidance of a health professional, who can also advise on how long to use it each day.

How quickly will it arrive?

Orders placed before 14:00 on a working day are dispatched the same day from Ireland. Ireland 1 to 2 working days; most of the EU 2 to 5; Nordic countries and islands up to 7. Delivery and VAT are included in the price.

Can I return it?

You can cancel within 14 days of delivery for any reason. For hygiene reasons the Carrot must be unused and in its sealed pack. Faulty items are replaced at our cost.

Do you supply hospitals and care homes?

Yes. Quantity pricing applies from ten kits, and we accept purchase orders with 30-day terms for verified organisations.