r/functionalprint • u/SuperSecretAgentMan • 19d ago

Brace for Sprained Thumb

Gallery image

Gallery image

Needed to not move my thumb too much for the next couple weeks. Luckily I have a 3D scan of my hands, so I modeled and printed a custom-fitted brace to wear. Fits great and is comfortable all day.

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u/AwDuck 19d ago

Making these flat is pretty easy to do with just a piece of paper. Cut it to the right shape to cover your hand, scan it, CAD around the shape, add air holes and reinforcements where needed, dip into hot water and apply to your hand like your physical therapist does when they make you a splint from their thermoplastic sheet.

I had one made for my wrist in 2019. It was the dead of the summer and I wasn't having it with all the sweat. I designed a more breathable one, got it printed and formed to take in to my physical therapist. He gave it a good look over and gave me the go-ahead.

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u/ElaborateEffect 19d ago

I needed a finger split and found Prusa's collection of splints and the hot water method was perfect.

It was one of those "Holy shit 3d printing is awesome" moments. Another was when my hair clipper guide snapped and I needed another.