Radial Gutter Thumb Spica
Most thumb spicas only immobilize the thumb and wrist, leaving the other fingers free to move. There are times, however, where it is necessary to immobilize more than just the wrist. The radial gutter thumb spica is a splint that immobilizes the wrist, thumb, index finger, and middle finger. The name comes from the fact that this spica is concentrated more on the radius side of the wrist and hand, which is where the index and middle finger are located. This article will explain how a radial gutter thumb spica can be more useful than a normal thumb spica.
Sometimes an injury can occur, whether it be through sports, exercises, or some other way, that requires the use of a radial gutter thumb spica. These spicas are needed when the wrist, thumb, index finger, and middle finger are injured. After applying a radial gutter thumb spica, it is best to rest the hand affected to allow healing. Sometimes the spica is padded with a thermoskin to help heat the area for faster healing.
The name of the radial gutter thumb spica comes from the fact that it immobilizes the side of the hand and wrist where the radius bone is located. This includes the index and middle fingers. This could have some effect on how those fingers operate normally because of how long they are out of use. Sometimes therapy is required to get them working normally again. If one of those fingers is injured along with the thumb and wrist, then the radial gutter thumb spica is the preferred way to splint the injury.
A radial gutter thumb spica is only used if either the index finger or middle finger, or both, is injured along with the thumb and wrist. The spica itself usually has straps to secure it in place. The best thing to do after putting a radial gutter thumb spica on is to rest the affected hand to allow it to heal more quickly. The spica can only guard the area, but it does not provide complete protection. It is best to not engage in activities that could potentially injure that area of your hand again soon after it has healed.