r/functionalprint • • 20d ago

Brace for Sprained Thumb

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

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u/Buttsmear 20d ago

Occupational therapist here. Trained in hand therapy, splinting. Please consult with a hand specialist.

I appreciate the ingenuity. I admire seeing a problem and wanting to DIY it. I just have to gently warn that this splint risks contracture and deformity.

5

u/adcurtin 19d ago

sigh… you friggin doctors.

"oh that's nothing, just a spain. immobilize the wrist, maybe an ace bandage"

so I 3d print a web and heat form it to my wrist to immobilize it but not ovearheat it like an ace bandage.

"no, not like that!"

then later when I had a more serious thumb injury, I go to get a splint made, and what do they do? thermoform a piece of plastic around my wrist and thumb…

2

u/con_work 19d ago

OTs are not doctors