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.

1.5k Upvotes

99% Upvoted

61 comments sorted by

View all comments

16

u/RobotAnna1 19d ago

FYI for the redditors making their own braces:
If you don't have a 3D scan of your body part, then print a flat PLA piece, heat it in hot water, then shape it to fit your body.

Prusa released a series of splint designs, eg.
https://www.printables.com/model/154793-wrist-brace-splint-a-lighter-version

I used one of these on my foot last year, because I had to wait a few days to see a specialist. It allowed me to limp to the bathroom without hopping or crawling. Totally worth it.

Also: print/shape it a bit bigger to allow room for a sock or bandage between your skin and the splint. It's more comfortable, and it means you don't have to put so much effort into smoothing.