If you are in the market for the best thumb brace for arthritis then look no further. Vive’s arthritis thumb splint is comfortable, supportive, and versatile. Suitable for either the right or left hand, it comes with removable aluminum splints, and adjustable straps for personalized compression and support. Read on to find out more about why we love this product.
Best Choice - Arthritis Thumb Splint
Vive’s thumb splint is not only lightweight and breathable but retains therapeutic heat. Plus, it features two removable splints and three adjustable straps.
Buy on AmazonMost commonly affecting the joint at the base of the thumb, arthritis is characterized by inflammation and loss of cartilage. Luckily, thumb support for arthritis can help to keep your wrist and thumb in the appropriate position, providing relief from this debilitating condition. Take a look at our guide to the best thumb braces for arthritis, and give your sore and swollen joints a break.
Our Top Picks
Best Choice
Vive
Arthritis Thumb Splint
Top Performance
Push Braces
MetaGrip Thumb Brace
Can’t Count Out
Mueller
Reversible Thumb Stabilizer
The 9 Best Thumb Braces for Arthritis
| Product | Brand | Latex-Free | Sizing | Right and Left Hand | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arthritis Thumb Splint | Vive | Not specified | One size | Yes |  |
| MetaGrip Thumb Brace | Push Braces | Yes | Three sizes | No | |
| Reversible Thumb Stabilizer | Mueller | Not specified | One size | Yes | |
| Wrist and Thumb Support | Neo-G | Not specified | Three sizes | Yes | |
| Thumb Spica Splint | U.S. Solid | Not specified | Two sizes | Yes | |
| Gel Thumb Wrist Brace | Vive | Yes | One size | Yes | |
| Thumb Deluxe Stabilizer | Futuro | Not specified | Two sizes | Yes | |
| Arthritis Thumb Splint | Comfort Cool | Not specified | One size | No | |
| Breathable Thumb Stabilizer | IRUFA | Yes | Two sizes | Yes | |
Best Choice: Arthritis Thumb Splint by Vive
Buy on AmazonMade from neoprene, this thumb brace for arthritis features two removable aluminum splints for a personalized level of support. Plus, it can be worn on either the right or left hand and comes with three adjustable fastener straps for tailored compression. This product is backed by a 60-day unconditional guarantee.
Main Features
- Removable splints
- Comes in 3 colors
- 3 fastener straps
- Retains therapeutic heat
- 60-day unconditional guarantee
Pros:
- Suitable for either hand
- Lightweight and breathable
- Fully adjustable
- Reduces inflammation
Cons:
- Velcro closures can lose their grip over time
- Some reviewers have complained about an unpleasant odor
Top Performance: MetaGrip Thumb Brace by Push Braces
Proven to alleviate the pain of thumb CMC osteoarthritis, this latex-free thumb support is comfortable enough to wear all day long. Plus, it comes with a contoured metal insert and double straps for added stability. This product is highly durable and machine-washable for easy cleaning.
Main Features
- Comes in 3 sizes
- Abrasion resistant
- Double straps
- Supportive metal insert
- Machine-washable
Pros:
- Highly durable
- Small enough to be worn under a glove
- Latex-free
- Comfortable
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Only fits the right or left wrist
Can’t Count Out: Reversible Thumb Stabilizer by Mueller
Available in black and beige, this versatile thumb support for arthritis can be worn on either the right or left hand. It is made from a breathable fabric and features two supportive stays and three adjustable straps for a personalized fit. Plus, it comes in a wraparound design that makes it a breeze to put on and take off.
Main Features
- Made from a breathable fabric
- 2 supportive stays
- 3 adjustable straps
- Fits either hand
- Comes in 2 colors
Pros:
- Doesn’t limit hand movement
- Antimicrobial
- Fits most hands
- Wraparound design
Cons:
- Uncomfortable stitching
- Some users have complained that this brace is too stiff
The Other Thumb Braces for Arthritis We Reviewed
Wrist and Thumb Support by Neo-G
This medical-grade wrist and thumb support for arthritis is made from a breathable knitted fabric that wicks away moisture. Plus, it is seamless to minimize the risk of skin irritations.
Specifically designed to deliver support during sports and other activities, this sleeve comes in three sizes. While this is a quality product, it is not as supportive as thumb braces with an in-built stay.
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Thumb Spica Splint by U.S. Solid
Featuring an in-built metal splint, this heavy-duty thumb spica splint alleviates the discomfort of arthritis and other chronic conditions. It comes with Velcro straps for a personalized fit, and stabilizes the thumb without restricting the range of motion of the other digits. On the downside, some reviewers have found this thumb brace difficult to put on.
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Gel Thumb Wrist Brace by Vive
This unique thumb brace is made from a latex-free gel material. It stretches to accommodate almost any sized hand. The material is washable and clear, making it a great choice for someone looking for a discreet brace.
There are no straps or Velcro to adjust, just slip on and you’re ready to go. However, it might not be the perfect product for someone who wants a more substantial brace.
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Thumb Deluxe Stabilizer by Futuro
Available in two sizes, this thumb brace for arthritis features two stays to stabilize the lower thumb joint. Plus, it comes with a lacing system for a snug fit and can be worn on either the right or left hand. Think carefully before buying this product, as it does not come with a return policy.
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Arthritis Thumb Splint by Comfort Cool
Made from perforated neoprene, this thumb brace comes with a terry cloth liner to keep your skin cool and sweat-free as you go about your day. Plus, it features reinforced stitching, and can be trimmed below the knuckle if required. On the downside, this brace comes in one size and only fits the right hand.
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Breathable Thumb Stabilizer by IRUFA
Made from breathable elastic fabric, this latex-free thumb brace comes with a removable splint and adjustable Velcro closures. Plus, it can be worn on either the right or left hand and is machine-washable for easy cleaning. On the downside, this thumb brace is not suitable for large hands.
Buy on AmazonSymptoms of Thumb Arthritis
Osteoarthritis often affects the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb. Some of the symptoms of thumb arthritis include:
- Pain, stiffness, or tenderness at the base of the thumb
- Difficulty gripping or pinching
- Swelling at the base of the thumb
- Decreased range of motion
- Enlarged joint at the base of the thumb
- Loss of strength in the thumb
What Can be Done for Arthritis in Thumb Joints?
Osteoarthritis, also called wear and tear arthritis, occurs when the cartilage at the base of the thumb starts to wear away. Besides wearing a thumb brace for arthritis, there are a number of steps you can take to minimize the discomfort of this debilitation condition.
Medication
Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen may provide short-term relief from the discomfort of arthritis. Topical analgesics, such as Capsaicin, can also be applied to the affected area to alleviate pain. In more extreme cases, your doctor can prescribe pain medication such as Tramadol or Celecoxib.
Injections
If medication is not effective at minimizing the pain of arthritis, your doctor may prescribe cortisone injections. This treatment delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area. Cortisone injections for thumb arthritis are usually administered two to three times a year.
Cold and Hot Therapy
If your thumb joint is inflamed, a cold pack can be placed on the affected area to reduce swelling and numb pain. However, if the joint is sore and stiff, and no inflammation is present, a hot pack or a warm bath can deliver soothing relief.
Exercise
Stretching exercises can alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and improve range of motion. It is best to consult your doctor about the types of hand exercises that are best for your situation, as some exercises can actually do more bad than good. Hand exercises can be performed in warm water to alleviate joint stiffness.
Surgery
In the most extreme cases of thumb arthritis, your doctor may recommend surgery. There are different types of thumb surgery including osteotomy to reposition the bones in the affected joint, joint fusion to fuse the bones in the joint, trapeziectomy to remove the trapezium bone from the thumb joint, and joint replacement to replace a part of the sore joint with a tendon graft.
Weighing All the Factors
Taking everything into account, we believe that Vive’s arthritis thumb splint stands above its competitors when it comes to providing both support and comfort. It restricts the movement of the thumb and delivers compression therapy to promote healing. Push Braces’ metagrip thumb brace and Mueller’s reversible thumb stabilizer are another two great options that support the thumb without limiting the movement of the other digits.
Best Choice - Arthritis Thumb Splint
Vive’s thumb splint is not only lightweight and breathable but retains therapeutic heat. Plus, it features two removable splints and three adjustable straps.
Buy on Amazon