Damage to the thumb as a result of fractures, sprains, deQuervain's syndrome and other conditions can be painful and cumbersome while healing. Thumb immobilization to achieve healing usually is a good treatment option, and there are numerous commercially available thumb splints to choose from. However, it is quick and inexpensive to make your own thumb splint with just a few components.
Step 1
Lay two wooden craft sticks side by side and flat on a table. Apply surgical tape to secure them together. Turn them over and tape the opposite side. This will make a wider wooden strip that's flexible down its center length. Do the same for the other two wooden craft sticks.
Step 2
Gently wrap the elasticized cloth bandage around your wrist two times. Extend the bandage up to your thumb and wrap your thumb two times. This serves as a cushion for the wooden strips. Take care to not injure your thumb by pushing it or moving it excessively.
Step 3
Place one wooden strip on the palm side and one on the back side of your thumb. Wrap one loop of tape over both of them to affix them to the bandage over your thumb. Make sure each wooden strip extends toward your wrist.
Step 4
Use the remainder of the elasticized cloth bandage to wrap two more loops around your thumb, enclosing the wooden strips inside. Then wrap the bandage around your hand and wrist, enclosing the wooden strips underneath the bandage near your wrist and over your hand. Also make at least one more wrap around your thumb. Ensure the bandage is not too tight. It is easy to restrict blood flow and thus retard healing.
Step 5
Tape the end of the elasticized cloth bandage to prevent it from unraveling. Some bandages come with a Velcro strap or an elastic strap for closing the end.
Tips and Warnings
- It is easiest if somebody else does this for you. Stick a 2-inch long piece of surgical tape to one wooden strip to facilitate wrapping it around your thumb.
- If you are allergic to surgical tape, substitute with hypoallergenic tape.
Things You'll Need
- Elasticized cloth bandage
- Surgical tape
- 4 wooden craft sticks
- Scissors
References
- "Splinting the hand and upper extremity: principles and process"; Section IV: Splinting for Specific Diagnoses and Populations; M. Jacobs and N. Austin; 2003
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine: Hand and Arm Ace Bandaging
- Family Education: Bandaging Wounds
