After a thorough review, it was easy to see why we chose the reversible thumb stabilizer by Vive as the best thumb spica splint. With the ability to fit almost any user, its reversibility, and comfort it can benefit anyone with a thumb injury or condition. Keep reading on to learn more about this splint and the other five splints we recommend.
Best Choice - Arthritis Thumb Splint by Vive
Vive’s arthritis thumb splint is made with a breathable neoprene mesh blend, it has a strong fastener system and includes two metal splints. It can be used for supporting the thumb joints and ligaments, but also for relieving pain and inflammation due to arthritis and other conditions.
Buy on AmazonInjuring your thumb is more than an annoyance, it’s painful and hinders everyday activities. The best thumb spica splint will stabilize your thumb as it heals and limits further injury. With an adjustable Velcro strap and solid thumb piece, these splints can help you heal faster. Take a look at our top choices to see which one works for you.
Dealing with Arthritis Pain in Your Thumb? Check Out These Other Top Thumb Braces.
Our Top Picks
The 6 Best Thumb Spica Splints
Best Choice: Thumb Splint by Vive
Our best choice thumb spica splint greatly limits the movement of the thumb with three adjustable Velcro straps and its durable neoprene fabric. The adjustable compression reduces swelling and inflammation while giving your hand and thumb the support it needs.
Your thumb is kept in a neutral position with two removable metal splints. Remove the metal splints when you need more flexibility or when you’re washing the thumb splint.
Main Features
- Removable metal splints
- Lightweight
- Breathable fabric
- Three adjustable Velcro straps
Pros:
- Reversible
- Compact design
- Excellent value
Cons:
- No wrist support
- Velcro can wear over time
Top Performance: Wrist Brace and Spica Splint by Velpeau
The wrist splint with thumb spica by Velpeau is a great choice for someone who needs maximum support and stability. You will have minimal movement with the metal palm rest and support on the back of the hand and thumb.
However, if you prefer more flexibility this forearm based thumb spica splint has removable parts to allow increased movement. With multiple colors and size choices, you’ll see why we think this splint is our top performer.
Main Features
- Removable metal palm rest
- Flexible backhand supports
- Lightweight
- Five adjustable straps
Pros:
- Hand washable
- 12 month guarantee
- Comes in a short or long length
- Removable thumb stabilizer
Cons:
- Not ambidextrous
- High price tag
Can’t Count Out: Reversible Sports Stabilizer by Mueller
Mueller’s splint supports and limits the movement in the thumb with two stays and allows the fingers to have free movement. The breathable fabric retains some warmth on the wrist to increase blood flow and healing.
It has three adjustable Velcro straps to customize your tightness and fit. The manufacturer recommends measuring around your wrist to determine the sizing, this product fits wrists 5.5” to 10” in circumference.
Main Features
- Breathable fabric
- Two stays
- Three adjustable straps
- Antimicrobial material
Pros:
- Reversible
- Easy on and off
- Two color choices
Cons:
- Hand wash only
- Fabric can rub on skin
The Other Thumb Spica Splints We Reviewed
Deluxe Thumb Stabilizer by Futuro
Here is a splint by Futuro that uses a strong lacing system in conjunction with Velcro that adjusts to achieve a nice tight fit. This splint can be worn on either hand and is made with a breathable fabric that provides an ergonomic fit for the user.
Your lower thumb joints will be securely stabilized with this product while your other fingers can move freely. Our only complaint with this splint is that it doesn’t offer any additional wrist support.
Buy on AmazonThumb Spica Splint by U.S. Solid
This thumb spica splint can be worn on the left or right hand. It comes with adjustable Velcro straps and multiple sizes, including a child’s size. The splint stabilizes the thumb while allowing the other fingers unrestricted movement.
The built-in metal splint is situated along the outside of the thumb and is covered by a comfortable, breathable fabric. The biggest drawback to this brace is that the metal splint is not removable for increased flexibility.
Buy on AmazonReversible Thumb Stabilizer by IRUFA
Here is a product by IRUFA that has a lightweight, breathable fabric that is latex-free. The splint has a removable metal stay and adjustable Velcro straps. It’s a compact designed thumb spica splint, making it easy to bring when traveling or on the go.
It is completely machine washable, just remember to take the metal splint out first! As much as we love this splint, it might not be the best option for you if you need complete thumb stabilization.
Buy on AmazonWhat are the Benefits of Thumb Spica Splints?
If you have injured your thumb through a strain, sprain, or fracture or suffer from conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or injuries from repetitive motions then you’ll benefit from a thumb spica splint. Here we’ll talk about all the different injuries and conditions and how a thumb splint will benefit you.
Sprain or Fracture
For people who have a sprain, strain, or fracture, a splint provides support and stabilization to the affected area. This reduces healing time, pain, and prevents further injury to the area. If you’ve had a bone fracture a splint is typically used because it gives the surrounding tissue space to swell.
Repetitive Movements
If you suffer from an injury that occurs because of repetitive motions, like deQueverain’s syndrome, a thumb splint for deQuerverain’s is beneficial to control the symptoms. The splint prevents thumb movement without restricting other fingers. This results in less pain and the minimal restriction make it easy to wear during work and other activities.
Arthritis
Even people with arthritis can benefit from using a thumb splint. A thumb splint uses metal stays and strong straps to support the joints and reduce inflammation in the concerned areas. If you are looking for a thumb spica splint for your injury or condition, we recommend talking to your doctor to determine your specific needs.
How to Choose the Best Thumb Spica Splint
Choosing the best thumb spica splint can be confusing. There are multiple styles, features, and designs to choose from. We’ve broken it down to three key items to help you make your decision.
Reversible
When you’re looking for a thumb splint take note as to which splints can be worn on either hand or are specific to the left or right hand. This will be important if you have an injury or condition that can affect both hands like arthritis or deQueverain’s but not as important if your injury is limited to one hand, like a fracture.
Material
The fabric in a thumb splint will vary between splints. If you are planning on wearing yours for the long term you’ll want one that is both lightweight and breathable. The material will also determine how flexible or rigid the splint can be. Taking in all these factors can help you make the right decision when choosing your splint.
Immobilization
Some thumb splints will have built-in or removable metal or plastic stays to reduce movement. If you have suffered a fracture you will want a thumb splint that has these features. If being able to machine wash your splint is important to you, then being able to remove the splints is something you will want to ensure.
Weighing All the Factors
The best thumb spica splint should have strong adjustable closures, a metal or plastic stay, and keep the thumb immobilized. Mueller’s reversible sports stabilizer offers all these features and more. Our other two top picks by Velpeau’s wrist brace and spica splint and Vive’s thumb splint have their own unique characteristics that set them apart.
We know that you’ll find one that works for your injury or condition to help you get back to everything you enjoy doing!
Best Choice - Arthritis Thumb Splint by Vive
Vive’s arthritis thumb splint is made with a breathable neoprene mesh blend, it has a strong fastener system and includes two metal splints. It can be used for supporting the thumb joints and ligaments, but also for relieving pain and inflammation due to arthritis and other conditions.
Buy on Amazon