Custom Thermoplastic Splinting
Expert Hand Therapy Splinting for Hand, Wrist & Finger Injuries
When you’ve injured your hand, wrist or fingers, protecting the injured structures while allowing the right amount of movement is essential for a successful recovery. A custom thermoplastic splint provides support that is specifically designed for your injury and your hand, helping you heal safely while maintaining as much function as possible.
At Alpine Physiotherapy, our experienced Hand Therapists design and fabricate custom-made thermoplastic splints tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’ve fractured a finger, injured a tendon, undergone surgery or require support for arthritis, our splints are lightweight, comfortable and made specifically for you.
As part of our Wanaka physio service, we work closely with local GPs, surgeons and ACC to ensure you receive the right splint at the right stage of your recovery.
What is a Custom Thermoplastic Splint?
A thermoplastic splint is a lightweight support made from a specialised medical-grade material that becomes soft when heated in warm water.
Once softened, the material is carefully moulded directly to your hand, wrist or fingers to create a splint that fits your anatomy perfectly. As it cools, it hardens into a durable support that holds the injured structures in the optimal position for healing.
Unlike generic braces purchased from a pharmacy, custom splints are:
- Individually moulded to your hand
- Lightweight and low profile
- Comfortable to wear
- Easily removable when appropriate
- Adjustable as swelling changes or healing progresses
- Designed specifically for your injury and stage of rehabilitation
Custom Splinting for Sports & Active Lifestyles
Living in Wanaka means many hand injuries occur during skiing, mountain biking, climbing, farming and outdoor adventures.
A custom thermoplastic splint can often provide the support needed to protect healing tissues while allowing you to continue with appropriate daily activities.
Our goal is always to balance protection with movement, helping you return to work and sport as safely and efficiently as possible.
Our Splinting Process
Every splint begins with a detailed assessment of your injury or condition. Your hand therapist will review any x-rays, ultrasounds, MRI’s or surgical information. They will discuss your work, sport and lifestyle demands. Then design the most appropriate spint for your condition.
The splint is then heated in a water bath, moulded directly to your hand and adjusted to ensure maximum comfort and function.
You’ll also receive clear instructions on:
- How long to wear your splint
- Skin care
- Cleaning your splint
- Exercises to complete during recovery
- When your splint may need adjusting
As your injury heals, we can modify the splint or progress you to a different design to support each stage of rehabilitation.
ACC Fully Funds Custom Thermoplastic Splints
If your injury is covered by ACC, your custom thermoplastic splint is fully funded, meaning there is no additional cost to you.
This includes both the assessment and fabrication of your splint as part of your ACC hand therapy treatment.
Rather than purchasing an off-the-shelf brace that may not fit properly, ACC funding allows you to receive a professionally designed splint that is individually moulded to your hand and injury.
If you’re unsure whether your injury is covered, our team can help guide you through the ACC process.
Why Choose Alpine Physiotherapy?
At Alpine Physiotherapy, our Hand Therapists combine specialist knowledge with high-quality custom splint fabrication to provide personalised care for every patient.
Our Wanaka physio team understands the physical demands of life in Central Otago—from farming and construction to skiing, climbing, mountain biking and everyday family life.
Whether your goal is protecting a recent fracture, recovering after surgery or returning to sport with confidence, we’ll ensure your splint is designed specifically for your injury and your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to make a custom splint?
Most custom thermoplastic splints can be assessed, fabricated and fitted during your appointment. The entire process usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the splint.
Can my splint be adjusted later?
Yes. As swelling reduces or your rehabilitation progresses, your splint can be reheated and modified to ensure it continues to fit comfortably and provide the correct level of support.
Can I get my splint wet?
Most thermoplastic splints should be removed for showering unless your therapist advises otherwise. We’ll provide specific instructions based on your injury and splint design.
Is a custom splint better than a brace?
For many hand and wrist injuries, yes. A custom-made splint offers a more precise fit, improved comfort and better protection than a standard off-the-shelf brace. Because it is moulded specifically to your hand, it provides support exactly where it is needed while allowing safe movement in unaffected joints.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with our Hand Therapy team. If you’ve been referred by your GP, emergency department or surgeon, we’ll work closely with them throughout your recovery.