kipsinä

Kipsinä is a Finnish term that translates to "as plaster" or "in plaster" in English. It refers to a state of being immobilized or cast in plaster, typically for medical reasons to support a broken bone or injured joint. When someone's limb is described as kipsinä, it means it is encased in a plaster cast.

The process of applying a kipsinä involves wrapping the injured area with plaster bandages, which are then wetted and harden to form a rigid protective shell. This cast prevents movement of the affected bone or joint, allowing it to heal properly. Removal of the kipsinä is usually done with a special saw that cuts through the plaster without damaging the skin underneath.

While most commonly associated with fractures, a kipsinä can also be used for severe sprains, dislocations, or after surgery to stabilize an area. The duration for which a limb remains kipsinä varies depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's healing rate, often ranging from several weeks to a few months. During this period, individuals may require assistance with daily activities and need to be mindful of keeping the cast dry.