Thumb Spica Splint
Many injuries in the forearm many require a thumb spica splint. A thumb spica splint is simply a type of splint that immobilizes the thumb and wrist to keep it stable enough for healing or transport. Many wrist based injuries use a thumb spica to keep them stable because of how easy they are to put on and how effective they are in keeping the wrist and thumb stable. They are made of different types of materials, some being better than others. This article will explain what a thumb spica is and how to use one.
If a injury occurs in the wrist and thumb, a thumb spica is the best way to keep it stable for healing or transport. Sometimes a condition that affects the wrist, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, de Quervain's tenosynovitis, or even just a sprain, will make it painful to move your wrist, but it is extremely hard to not move it in daily activities. This is where a thumb spica splint comes in. A thumb spica helps immobilize the wrist and thumb to allow the affected area to heal. It also keeps it stable enough for when you may need medical attention in that area.
Thumb spicas are quite simple in design. What it does is wrap around your thumb and wrist. Some can even go down to the elbow, covering the whole forearm if it is a major injury. The material, made of thermoplastic, Orthoglass, or some other type of material, is strong enough to keep it immobilized and stable. Some materials are stronger than others but they are usually harder to obtain.
Usually a thumb spica can allow full finger motion, with the exception of the thumb. Thus it will not seriously hamper with daily activities as long as they do not require bending of the wrist or thumb. Many wrist based injuries are caused by repetitive motion, such as typing for a long time. The best way to avoid having to wear a thumb spica for repetitive motion injury is to take regular breaks to help relieve your wrist.
Thumb spicas are very useful for wrist and thumb injuries. It does not seriously hamper daily activities, and they are very simple in design. Repetitive motion injury as well as minor sports accidents are the main reasons why thumb spicas are used. Thumb spicas are quite common because injuries in the forearm and thumb are also very common.