Ortho Rhiza Thumb Support - OrthoBrace

Mouldable aluminium stays run along the top and the underside of this thumb support, so the firmness can be shaped by hand to hold your thumb where you need it. That is what separates a firm, structured thumb brace from a soft elastic sleeve. It holds the thumb MCP joint steady and adds support at the base of the thumb, the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint.

The OrthoBrace Ortho Rhiza is a firm thumb support built around adjustable aluminium supports on the dorsal (top) and volar (palm) sides, wrapping the base of the thumb and the proximal phalanx. The shell is soft velour with air holes punched through it, so it stays breathable against the skin through a full day of wear. It fits either hand, left or right, and comes in two sizes.

This is a support for someone already managing a thumb that needs holding steady, not everyday insurance for a healthy thumb. If you are not sure a firm thumb support suits your situation, check with a physiotherapist or your health professional before you buy. They can confirm whether this level of support is right for you and which size to order.

Straptor is Australian owned and run, and the support range is stocked next to our strapping tape and the thumb taping guides, so you can weigh a firm brace against taping the thumb yourself. Orders dispatch nationally and the range is on the shelf at the East Bendigo walk-in, with phone advice if you want a hand choosing. For the wider range, see our braces and supports, or browse the other finger and thumb supports.

Features

• Adjustable aluminium stays on the top and underside, shaped by hand to hold the thumb steady
• Firm, structured support at the thumb MCP joint and the base-of-thumb CMC joint
• Soft velour shell with punched air holes for breathability
• Low-profile build made for all-day wear
• Universal fit for a left or right thumb
• Two sizes to cover most thumbs

Specifications

• Brand: OrthoBrace
• Model: Ortho Rhiza thumb support
• Support level: firm and structured
• Frame: adjustable aluminium stays, dorsal and volar
• Shell: soft velour with ventilation holes
• Fit: universal, left or right thumb
• Sizes: Regular, Large

What's in the box

• One OrthoBrace Ortho Rhiza thumb support, in the size you select

Usage

Slide the support onto the thumb so the aluminium stays sit along the top and the underside, then adjust the fit so the thumb is held comfortably still. The stays can be gently shaped by hand to change how firmly the thumb is held. Wear it as directed by your health professional.

Care and storage

Keep the support clean and dry between wears, and let it air dry away from direct heat so the velour and the aluminium stays hold their shape.

Common questions

What does the Ortho Rhiza thumb support actually do? It holds the thumb MCP joint steady and adds support at the base of the thumb, using shaped aluminium stays for a firm, structured hold rather than the light compression of an elastic sleeve.

Will it fit my hand? It fits either hand, left or right, and comes in regular and large. If you are between sizes or not sure, call or visit the Bendigo store before ordering.

Is this the same as taping my thumb? No. A brace is reusable and quick to put on, while taping gives you more control over exactly where the support sits. Our thumb taping guide walks through the tape option if you want to compare the two.

Should I see someone first? If you have an ongoing thumb complaint, it is worth checking with a physiotherapist or your health professional about whether a firm support suits you and how long to wear it.

OrthoBrace is the stocked brand. Straptor makes no treatment or injury-prevention claim for this support: it is a firm thumb support, and whether it suits an existing thumb complaint is a decision for you and your health professional.