Instructions

Applying Thumb Splint

Step 1: Put the thumb through the thumb hole. Orient the splint so that the stitching follows the crest of the web between thumb and index finger. Snug to fit comfortably. Draw the strap of the splint at an angle so that it drops below the corner of the palm. (For medical personnel, it sits below the pisiform bone). Pull the split strap so it continues around the back of the hand all the way around again to the palm side.

Step 2: Depending on your intent, you can attach the hook tape in either of 2 ways:

Option A: If you are experiencing thumb pain or arthritis at the base of the thumb (C-M-C joint), direct the pull of the strap up into the base of the thumb metacarpal as illustrated.

Option B: If you are attempting to improve grasp quality, attach the hook tape to put mild pressure on the head of the thumb metacarpal.

Applying Supinator Strap - Self-Attachment Above Elbow

Step 1: To attach supinator strap, undo strap from thumb splint. Reattach thumb splint over supinator strap. (figure 3)

Step 2: Wind one turn around forearm, then one turn behind elbow. Attach wider, squared hook tape end of strap to itself above elbow (figure 4). The splint is designed to assist forearm extension, so supinator strap must cut across the back of elbow.

Step 3: Once splint is in place, passively turn forearm palm up (supination) and slightly extend wrist (figure 5). Make any necessary adjustments to supinator strap to ensure a snug fit. The attachment above the elbow, while snug, should be comfortable, balancing good coloration of the hand with some pull from the strap.

Step 4: Finally, check the hand splint and, if necessary, rotate it to ensure the thumb is positioned to oppose fingers.

Always follow precautions on label regarding splint application and wear.

Fitting Thumb Splint and Adjustable Supinator Strap

Both the strap of the Thumb Splint and the Adjustable Supinator Strap may be shortened to accommodate different size hands or to compensate for some loss of elasticity in the straps that occurs over time.

Thumb Splint

If after trying the on the splint, the splint strap and velcro protrude beyond the thumb, cut strap and/or hook tape to fit the hand.

Supinator Strap

The squared end of the supinator strap may be cut to fit a shorter or narrower forearm. Attach free piece of hook tape to the squared end of strap.

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