Thumb Spica Splint: Uses, Benefits and Buying Guide

Any injury to the thumb and wrist can make it hard for you to perform some of your daily functions. 

Tasks like writing, keyboarding, using your mobile phone, holding and preparing food can give you a lot of pain because of the injury that has affected your thumb or wrist.

A thumb spica splint is one of the common orthopedic devices that will help you stabilize your thumb as well as give more support to your wrist. 

This will prevent any unwanted movement of your thumb. They come in a variety of styles, sizes and materials so can be used by those suffering with a variety of thumb and wrist issues.

In this guide, we will take a look at what a thumb spica splint is, common uses, major benefits and key features to look out for when buying one.

What Is A Thumb Spica Splint?

A thumb spica splint is an orthopaedic support tool that can help to provide support by limiting movement in your thumb. Unlike a standard wrist support, a thumb spica splint has an extension to help provide support to your thumb. 

They are usually made using soft breathable material, adjustable velcro strapping and a supportive splint/ stay. Some models also include an aluminium splint. 

This splint will help to limit any unnecessary movement in your thumb but will not cause any unnecessary restriction to the other fingers. It is ideal for giving extra support during everyday tasks. 

There are a variety of thumb spica splints available. Right handed, left handed and universal.

Common Uses Of A Thumb Spica Splint

A thumb spica splint may be recommended by healthcare professionals for a variety of thumb, wrist and soft tissue issues.

1. Thumb Fracture

If you have a fracture in the proximal phalanx or metacarpal bone of the thumb, then the thumb spica splint may be used to restrict any movement in order to support you externally during your recovery period.

2. Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury

Ulnar collateral ligament injuries can also be known as skier’s thumb. This is when the ligament that supports your thumb joint gets stretched or damaged. A thumb spica splint will help to limit movements that could cause unnecessary stress.

3. Wrist And Thumb Sprain

Strains and sprains may be the source of problems with ligaments, tendons and soft tissues. Thumb spica splint can be used for providing stability as well as limiting unnecessary movements to relieve pain.

4. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

It is a condition which may irritate the tendons located on the thumb side of the wrist. This will result in pain while gripping, lifting as well as moving the thumb. Thumb Spica Splint is an excellent way to avoid repetitive motion of the tendons.

5. Osteoarthritis Of Thumb

For those people who have arthritis in the thumb joint, they may experience stiffness, swelling and pain in the thumb, especially at the base of the thumb. Thumb spica splint can help give some support to the joint.

6. Post Surgery

After certain thumb or wrist surgery, you may require your thumb to be immobilised. A thumb spica splint may be prescribed to help give support to the joint and limit any movement.

7. Tendon Injury

If you have injured your flexor or extensor tendon in your thumb, then you may require appropriate support. A thumb spica splint can help to limit any movements that may cause discomfort to your tendons.

Benefits Of Using A Thumb Spica Splint

Finding the correct thumb spica splint can have many benefits which includes:

1. Limit Unwanted Movement

One of the main benefits to using a thumb spica splint is it can limit any unwanted movement in your thumb. The supportive structure will help to stabilise the joint.

2. Decrease Pain And Discomfort

Since the injured area will be supported, this can result in decreased pain from sprains, strains, arthritis and some types of tendinitis.

3. Provide Support To Ligaments And Soft Tissue

Your thumb contains a complex structure consisting of ligaments, tendons and joints. By finding a correctly fitting splint this can help provide external support to protect these areas.

4. Aid Recovery After Surgery

After certain surgery it is important to protect your thumb and wrist. A prescribed thumb spica splint can help to keep your joint in the correct position.

5. Help Keep Thumb In Correct Position

The splint will help keep your thumb in a supported position. This can be useful for those that require their thumb to be in a controlled position.

6. Comfortable To Wear

It is comfortable to wear because of its soft material  as well as easy adjustability. It may help in giving stability during day-to-day activities.

7. Extra Wrist Support

Many thumb spica splints will wrap around your wrist to provide support to your thumb and wrist. 

Key Features To Look Out For

When looking to buy a thumb spica splint, it is important to find the correct one. These are some key features to look out for:

1. Ergonomic Design

Ensure you use a splint which is customizable in order to fit your hand and wrist. In this way, it will not put any pressure on your hand. Ideally look for a splint that:

• Provides support to your thumb and wrist
• Limits unwanted movement in your thumb
• Allows ease of movement of your unaffected fingers
• Is secure and stable

2. Quality Material

The material used can make a difference to how comfortable the splint is. Using a soft breathable material that will not irritate your skin can be prompt for gentle thumb care as well as it is best to choose a material that is light in weight for a non-bulky feel.

3. Adjustable Velcro Straps

Using adjustable Velcro/hook and loop will help you find a comfortable fit. A secure fastening will help keep the splint in place.

4. Aluminium Splint

An aluminium splint will help to provide support to your thumb. This will help keep your thumb in the correct position.

5. Universal or Left/Right Handed

Some thumb spica splints will be universal. There are also left and right handed ones available.

6. Comfortable Compression

A good thumb spica splint will provide good support but not be too tight. The strapping should be secure but not cause any discomfort, numbness, tingling or colour change in your fingers.

7. Durable

Look for a thumb splint that has good stitching, secure strapping as well as quality material. It should also be easy to clean.

How To Wear A Thumb Spica Splint

It is essential that you wear your thumb spica splint properly in order to receive the right amount of support. Follow the directions of your healthcare provider always. More so when wearing the splint post-surgery or with a fracture. Normally you will have to:

• Put your hand into the splint. Make sure that your thumb sits well within the splint.
• Keep the wrist and thumb placed as per directions.
• Fasten the straps plus you need to see that the straps are not secured very tight.
• Check that your thumb needs to be properly supported while your fingers are able to move freely along with any feeling of numbness.

Pro Tips For Finding The Best Thumb Spica Splint 

Before purchasing consider the following buying guide:

• Know your condition

Different injuries will require different amounts of support. Choose a splint that is suitable for your diagnosed condition.

• Size

Choose a splint that will fit your hand well and provide good support for your thumb as well as wrist.

• Comfortable Material

Using a breathable material will help make wearing the splint more comfortable.

• Adjustable Straps

Look for adjustable strapping.

• Aluminium Splint

If you require more stability then look for one with an aluminium splint.

• Quality

Ensure the splint has good stitching, quality material as well as secure fastening.

• Professional Advice

A doctor or physiotherapist can advise you on which thumb splint would be best for your injury.

Conclusion

A thumb spica splint is a useful orthopaedic aid that can help to stabilise your thumb as well as wrist.It is highly effective in dealing with different conditions like thumb fractures, ligament injuries, sprains, tendon injuries, arthritis as well as post-surgical recovery treatments.

When looking for a thumb spica splint, there are some factors that must be taken into consideration including ergonomic design, breathable fabric, Velcro fastening, aluminum splint, comfort in compression as well as fitting. 

The right product helps in creating stability and a better feeling while wearing the thumb spica splint. However, it is important that you take the suggestion of a doctor.  When you buy a suitable thumb spica splint, it will definitely give you more support and comfort.