Definition
A thumb orthosis can be considered a “firm bandage”. These orthoses usually consist of elastic parts that surround the wrist and relatively firm parts that ensure a more or less strong splinting of the thumb. A thumb orthosis is usually relatively easy to put on, adjust (elasticity, Velcro) and take off.
Indications
A thumb orthosis can be helpful in many different cases and serves to stabilize, immobilize, relieve pain and maintain the functionality of the remaining fingers. Very often a thumb orthosis is used in the treatment of rhizarthroses (wear and tear of the thumb saddle joint). The joint between the metacarpophalangeal and carpal bones is stabilized by this.
Painful movements are prevented and a general gentle position of the other fingers is eliminated. Despite immobilization, the affected persons can use the hand functionally better. Another frequent indication is (chronic) over-irritation and overloading of the thumb, which can be accompanied by inflammation of the joints and tendons.
In addition, other thumb orthoses are used after operations in the area of the thumb and its metacarpal bone. They can also be used to remedy severe bruises and compressions. An injury can also lead to tears in the ligaments (ulnar ligament) in the thumb area.
This can also be an indication for a thumb orthosis. Rhizarthrosis is an arthrosis (wear) of the thumb saddle joint. This joint is located at the origin of the thumb, near the wrist, and thus represents the connection between the metacarpophalangeal and carpal bones.
Women suffer more frequently from this arthrosis. Both hands are also often affected. Some professions place a particular strain on this joint and thus increase the risk of this type of arthrosis (for example hairdressers).
There can be swelling and movement-related pain, which can greatly restrict everyday life. These occur more frequently during gripping and turning movements. Orthoses can help by stabilising and reducing the pain.
Different thumb orthoses
For each indication and clinical picture there are specific orthoses from different manufacturers that immobilize certain regions of the thumb. In the case of rhizarthosis, an orthosis is required that immobilizes the thumb saddle joint. The splinted, fixed part often also immobilizes the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb.
After operations, injuries or other clinical pictures, special orthoses can be used, which are specifically selected and prescribed by the doctor. The immobilization can be more or less strong and a stabilization can affect all or individual joints of the thumb. A distinction is usually made between right and left orthoses.
These cannot be used for the opposite side. In comparison: the right glove does not fit the left hand either. In addition, the orthoses differ in size. The different sizes can be tried out when buying and during the consultation.
