Our fingers are involved in almost everything we do, from making a cup of tea to typing on our phones or getting dressed in the morning. But when you have arthritis, even these simple tasks can become surprisingly difficult.
If you’ve been dealing with aching finger joints, swelling or morning stiffness, you’ll know just how frustrating it can be when your hands don’t work quite as they used to.
Luckily, there are ways to manage arthritis symptoms and make everyday activities a little easier. One option is arthritis finger splints, which help support painful joints and reduce movements that make the pain worse.
This guide explores the benefits of arthritis finger splints, the various designs available and how to find suitable support for your needs.
What Are Arthritis Finger Splints?
Arthritis finger splints are small medical devices designed to stabilise painful or unstable finger joints. Depending on the design, they can control certain movements without restricting the rest of your hand.
There are a few different types of arthritis that can affect your fingers, including:
- Osteoarthritis: The most common type of arthritis, which causes changes in the joints and can lead to pain, stiffness and swelling.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the joints, often affecting both hands.
- Psoriatic arthritis: A type of inflammatory arthritis that can leave your fingers swollen, painful and harder to move.
How Can Finger Splints Help Ease Arthritis Pain?
When your finger joints are sore or stiff, certain movements can put extra strain on them. Even something as simple as turning a key or carrying a shopping bag might become uncomfortable.
Depending on which joints are affected, wearing a suitable splint might help make these activities less painful.
Some of the main benefits include:
- Reducing joint pain: Supporting an arthritic finger might help reduce the pain by taking some of the strain off the affected joint.
- Improving stability: Finger splints provide extra joint support when your fingers feel weak or unstable.
- Supporting joint alignment: Some splints help stop your fingers from bending too far or moving into positions that cause discomfort.
- Making daily activities easier: With the right finger support, things like writing, cooking or using your phone might become easier to manage.
Of course, finger splints won’t cure arthritis or reverse existing joint damage. But they can be a useful, non-invasive way to help relieve pain alongside other recommended treatments.
What Types of Arthritis Finger Splints Are Available?
Arthritis finger splints come in several different designs, from lightweight ring splints to more rigid braces and compression sleeves. Each offers a different level of support depending on your needs.
Ring Splints
Ring splints are small, lightweight supports that fit around individual finger joints.
They’re particularly useful when a joint is unstable or bends too far backwards, as can happen with conditions such as swan neck deformity.
Unlike bulkier finger braces, ring splints can provide finger joint support while still letting you move other parts of your finger.
Rigid Finger Splints
Rigid finger splints provide firmer support by limiting how much a finger can move.
Some have an aluminium support bar along the palmar (palm-facing) side of the finger, with comfortable padding and adjustable straps. Others are made from thermoplastic materials that can be moulded to fit the finger.
These splints are often used when a joint needs to stay in a particular position, such as after an injury or during post-surgical recovery.
Compression Finger Sleeves
Finger sleeves and compression gloves are another option for people dealing with sore or swollen hands.
They’re usually made from stretchy materials, such as neoprene, that provide gentle compression around the affected area.
Some people find them helpful for managing pain and swelling, although they don’t usually offer as much stability as a structured finger splint.
When Else Might You Need a Finger Splint?
Finger splints aren’t just used for arthritis. They can also come in handy for a range of injuries and conditions that affect how your fingers move.
For example:
- Trigger finger: This happens when a finger catches, clicks or locks in place during movement. A splint can help by limiting movements that make the problem worse.
- Mallet finger: An injury to the tendon that straightens your fingertip. A splint is usually needed to keep the distal (end) joint straight while it heals.
- Boutonniere deformity: A condition where the middle finger joint bends downwards while the fingertip bends backwards.
- Sprains and sports injuries: An injured finger might need some extra protection and support while it recovers.
Conditions such as tendonitis and tenosynovitis can also cause pain and problems with finger movement, although the type of splint needed will depend on what’s causing the symptoms.
How Do You Choose the Right Finger Splint for Arthritis?
Finding the right finger splint isn’t just about choosing a design you like. It’s also important to make sure it fits properly and suits your particular arthritis symptoms.
Before choosing a splint, think about:
- Which joint needs support? Arthritis can affect your knuckle, middle joint or fingertip, and each might need a different type of splint.
- Does it fit properly? Swelling can change throughout the day, so check the available finger sizes and whether the splint fits securely without pinching or rubbing.
- Will it interfere with daily activities? Think about whether you’ll need to wear your splint while writing, working or doing other tasks that require finger movement.
- Is it suitable for regular wear? Whether you’re supporting your index, middle, ring or pinky finger, lightweight materials and a smooth finish can make wearing a splint easier.
Signs Your Finger Splint Doesn’t Fit Properly
A splint should feel secure, but it shouldn’t cause more problems for your finger.
Keep an eye out for:
- Red marks that don’t go away or skin irritation
- Increased joint pain or swelling
- Numbness or tingling
- Changes in your finger’s colour or temperature
If you notice any of these signs, remove the splint and get advice from a healthcare professional. If your finger becomes cold, blue or severely painful, seek urgent medical attention.
If you’re not sure which splint or size you need, a rheumatologist or hand therapist can help you find the right fit.
Can You Wear Arthritis Finger Splints Every Day?
Yes, some arthritis finger splints can be worn every day, but how long you should wear one depends on your symptoms and the type of support you need.
For example, you might only need a splint when you’re doing things that put extra pressure on your finger joints. Other conditions might need support during rest or overnight.
But wearing a splint for longer than necessary isn’t always better. Keeping a joint still for too long can actually make stiffness worse, so it’s important to follow the wearing instructions you’ve been given.
The Role of Finger Splints in Managing Arthritis
Managing finger arthritis isn’t always straightforward, especially when your symptoms change from one day to the next.
Arthritis finger splints are one option worth considering if you’re looking for additional support, whether that’s during certain activities or as part of your wider arthritis management plan.
If you’re unsure which type of splint is suitable, a healthcare professional can help you understand your options and find one that works for your needs.
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