After reviewing a variety of thumb supports, our title of the best trigger thumb splint goes to Vive’s arthritis thumb splint. Fully adjustable, this lightweight splint is made from breathable neoprene and features two removable aluminum stays. Read on to find out why this product is a game-changer.
Best Choice - Arthritis Thumb Splint by Vive
Designed to both immobilize the thumb and increase blood circulation, Vive’s arthritis thumb splint comes with two removable stays and three adjustable straps.
Buy on AmazonTrigger thumb, or the inflammation of the flexor tendon, can stop you in your tracks. The condition results in clicking and popping, and can even leave your thumb locked in a painful position. Luckily, wearing a trigger thumb splint can help by keeping your thumb in an elongated position without restricting the movement of your other digits. Check out our list of the best trigger thumb splints to find one that fits your particular specifications.
Our Top Picks
Best Choice
Vive
Arthritis
Thumb Splint
Top Performance
3-Point
Oval-8 Finger Splint
Graduated Set
Can’t Count Out
Mueller
Reversible
Thumb Stabilizer
The 8 Best Trigger Thumb Splints
| Product | Brand | Latex-Free | Sizing | Colors | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arthritis Thumb Splint | Vive | Not specified | One size | Three colors |  |
| Oval-8 Finger Splint Graduated Set | 3-Point | Not specified | Six size sets | One color | |
| Reversible Thumb Stabilizer | Mueller | Not specified | One size | Two colors | |
| Thumb Spica Splint | U.S. Solid | Not specified | Three sizes | One color | |
| Thumb Brace Stabilizer | Houseables | Not specified | One size | One color | |
| Deluxe Thumb Stabilizer | Futuro | Not specified | Two sizes | One color | |
| Reversible Thumb Stabilizer | IRUFA | Yes | Two sizes | One color | |
| Thumb Spica Support Brace | BraceUP | Not specified | One size | One color | |
Best Choice: Arthritis Thumb Splint by Vive
Buy on AmazonMade from neoprene, this adjustable splint restricts thumb movement and delivers compression and therapeutic heat. It features two removable aluminum stays for a personalized level of immobilization and three ultra-strong fastener straps. This product is backed by a 60-day unconditional guarantee.
Main Features
- 2 removable stays
- Made from neoprene
- Adjustable compression
- Lightweight and breathable
- 3 fastener straps
Pros:
- Can be worn on either hand
- Supports thumb joints and ligaments
- Comes in 3 colors
- 60-day unconditional guarantee
Cons:
- Velcro closures can lose its grip over time
- Product can have an unpleasant odor
Top Performance: Oval-8 Finger Splint Graduated Set by 3-Point
These trigger finger and thumb splints come in six sets of three splints—simply pick the sizes that suit you. The splints alleviate a variety of conditions, including trigger thumb, depending on how they are worn. The wide bands are waterproof—keep them on while washing your hands—and feature rounded edges for maximum comfort during the day and night.
Main Features
- 6 sets of 3 splints
- Wide bands
- Rounded edges
- Waterproof and lightweight
- Can be worn at night
Pros:
- Easy to find the correct fit
- Can also be worn on the fingers
- Alleviate a variety of conditions
- Angled for a tighter or looser fit
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Can be hard to determine the correct size
Can’t Count Out: Reversible Thumb Stabilizer by Mueller
This one-size-fits-most thumb splint for trigger thumb features two integrated stays and three adjustable straps for a personalized fit. It fits snugly around the thumb without limiting the movement of the other fingers. Plus, it is made from an antimicrobial fabric to minimize odors and build up of bacteria.
Main Features
- Comes in 2 colors
- One-size-fits-most
- Breathable fabric
- 3 adjustable straps
- Wraparound design
Pros:
- Fits left or right hand
- Antimicrobial
- Free finger movement
- Therapeutic warmth
Cons:
- Uncomfortable stitching
- Not the best option for small hands
The Other Trigger Thumb Splints We Reviewed
Thumb Spica Splint by U.S. Solid
Available in three sizes, this trigger thumb spica splint comes with adjustable Velcro straps and is easy to put on and take off. It also features a metal splint covered in a plush fabric to ensure comfort while you heal. Luckily, this product is backed by a one-year satisfaction guarantee, as the Velcro fastenings can wear out over time.
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Thumb Brace Stabilizer by Houseables
This affordable trigger thumb splint is made from a breathable fabric, making it suitable for both day and nightwear. It comes with two stays, two adjustable hook-and-loop straps, and a dedicated thumb strap. On the downside, this splint is not the best option for large hands.
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Deluxe Thumb Stabilizer by Futuro
Featuring a low-profile design to allow free movement of the fingers, this splint stabilizes your thumb as you go about your activities. It is made from a soft and breathable material and comes with a customizable lacing system and two supportive stays. Think carefully before buying this brace, as it is not returnable.
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Reversible Thumb Stabilizer by IRUFA
Made from elastic knit fabric and quick-dry yarn, this latex-free thumb splint for trigger thumb is both comfortable and gentle on the skin. This FDA-approved brace also features adjustable Velcro fasteners and a removable splint to keep your thumb immobilized during the healing process. On the downside, this product’s sizing chart runs large.
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Thumb Spica Support Brace by BraceUP
This spica brace features adjustable thumb and wrist straps, and two firm stays, for a customized fit and stability. It is made from a breathable material to keep you sweat-free and fits both the right and left hand. However, the Velcro straps may wear out over time.
Buy on AmazonWhat Causes Trigger Thumb
Trigger thumb is caused by inflammation of the flexor tendon, the tissue that connects your muscles and bones. Here are a few risk factors that may make you predisposed to this painful condition.
Age and Gender
Trigger thumb or trigger finger is more likely to affect those over 40, with individuals between 40 and 60 at higher risk. The condition is also more common among women than men.
Medical Conditions
Certain health problems, such as diabetes, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to trigger thumb. Trigger thumb is also more likely to flare up after surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly during the first six months following the operation.
Repeated Movements
Repeated movements, such as forceful gripping, can increase the likelihood of trigger thumb. Hobbies that involve repetitive hand movements, such as playing a musical instrument, place you at a higher risk of developing the condition. Trigger thumb is also common among industrial workers.
Trigger Thumb Treatment
While treatment for trigger thumb should depend on the severity of your symptoms, wearing a trigger thumb splint is a great place to start. Here are a few other steps you can take to alleviate the symptoms of this debilitating condition and speed up healing.
Rest
If your trigger thumb is caused by certain repetitive hand movements, you should rest the affected area and stay away from the activity that is at the root of the problem. Wearing a thumb splint is a great way of not just immobilizing the thumb, but also reminding you to limit your range of motion.
Medication and Injections
Taking over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can reduce the discomfort of trigger thumb. If your condition is more serious, your doctor may decide to administer a steroid injection into the tendon sheath. Steroid injections usually alleviate the symptoms of trigger thumb for at least a year but tend to be less effective for people with diabetes. If your symptoms do not improve after the first injection, your doctor may decide to administer a second one.
Percutaneous Release
Percutaneous release treatment involves the insertion of a needle into the tissue surrounding the affected tendon. Only reserved for the most severe cases, surgery involves an incision near the base of the thumb to open the tendon sheath and let it glide more smoothly. Physical therapy may be required after surgery to help you regain your range of motion.
Trigger Thumb Exercises
Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can alleviate stiffness and improve your thumb’s range of motion. For best results, perform these exercises for around 15 minutes a day, increasing this time as you gain more strength.
Rubber Band Exercise
Hold your fingers and thumb together, ensuring that they are all touching. Put an elastic band around your fingers and thumb before opening and closing them against the resistance. You should be able to feel the tension of the band while performing this exercise.
Finger Lift
Place your hand palm-down on a flat surface such as a table. Lift your fingers individually, placing special emphasis on your sore thumb. Lift the fingers slowly and hold them up in the air for a second or two before laying them back down on the table. Alternatively, use your other hand to slowly lift your thumb while keeping the rest of your fingers on the table.
Ball Squeeze
Repeatedly squeezing a soft ball or a rolled up towel with your digits can alleviate the stiffness and popping of trigger thumb. Apply gentle pressure to your fist and the affected thumb while squeezing before slowly releasing the position. This exercise strengthens the muscles.
Weighing All the Factors
After sifting through the best splints for trigger thumb on the market, Vive’s arthritis thumb splint came out on top for its lightweight design and list of features. A close second, 3-Point’s oval-8 finger splint graduated set and Mueller’s reversible thumb stabilizer are other great options for alleviating the symptoms of this debilitating condition.
Best Choice - Arthritis Thumb Splint by Vive
Designed to both immobilize the thumb and increase blood circulation, Vive’s arthritis thumb splint comes with two removable stays and three adjustable straps.
Buy on Amazon