function meets support
Durathumb is a custom 3D-printed thumb stabilization splint. It supports your thumb in gripping and pinching tasks without compromising the functional mobility of the hand.
our design process
1. take your measurements
After you place your order, we will send you a sizing kit with instructions.
Submit your sizing information to sales@durathumb.com when you are ready.
2. WE design your splint prototypes
Each splint is custom engineered based on your dimensions. To ensure the best fit, we design 3 prototypes for you to choose from.
After you have tried the prototypes, choose the best fitting one and let us know if there are any changes that need to be made. We follow-up with every customer to ensure a comfortable fit.
3. we send you the final splint
After the design is finalized, we will print the final splint in a smooth finish and mail it to you.
The splint is waterproof, skin-safe, and easy to clean.
Our Story
Clinician designed
Durathumb was conceptualized by Stella Q. Wang, a certified hand therapist and occupational therapist, out of the desire to stabilize the natural hypermobility of her own thumbs.
With the help of some engineering friends, the first 3D-printed prototype was created. The success led to more rapid prototyping. More than 20 designs were generated in the process. The result is a parametric model where the exact geometry is based on the individual anatomical measurements taken to ensure the perfect fit.
A little bit about the thumb anatomy
There are three joints in the thumb: the interphalangeal (IP) joint, the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint, and the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. Each one is stacked on top of the other like building blocks of a tower. Injury to any one of them will lead to increased stress of the other joints. When the middle (MCP) joint bends back because it is hypermobile, the other two joints have to compensate and react in the opposite way.
This leads to a zigzag deformity while pinching (see picture). The nearby muscles respond and struggle to keep the thumb strong and stable, but that leads to fatigue. Repeated stress of the thumb in this kind of deformity leads to earlier wear and tear of the basal (CMC) joint surface, leading to arthritis and pain.
joint hypermobility and EDS
People with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) have joint instability that make them more susceptible to chronic pain in the thumb.
The best way to reduce symptoms and prevent further joint degradation is to use a well-fitted and supportive splint with everyday tasks.
Learn more about EDS and HSD from The Ehlers-Danlos Society
3D printing
3D-printing is a method of adding or solidifying material to create a three-dimensional object based on a computer model. This type of manufacturing is great for producing small, custom products with a complex geometry - perfect for thumb splints.
We use (computer-aided design) CAD software to create a unique splint model based on your anatomical measurements. Although CAD modeling is laborious up front, the reward is much greater than traditional ways of pegging people into predetermined sizes.
Custom 3D printed thumb splints designed for you —
Easy to maintain
Clean with soap and water and safe for cold sterilization.
Quality
Custom designed with your dimensions.
Feedback
Design process includes prototype trial and you can request changes if necessary.
Sustainable
Prototypes are made with biodegradable plastic derived from corn.