PSB is a quality range of sport braces from Push, developed by a team of experienced specialists in close cooperation with athletes. The very latest materials and techniques have been employed in the manufacture of PSB.

About thumb injuries.

Athletes regularly suffer thumb injuries. They are usually caused by a fall, stumble  or a collision. When this occurs the thumb is suddenly pushed sideways or backwards to an excessive extent. An abrupt movement away from the index finger may cause a tear in the capsule enclosing the thumb joint.

Most people retain chronic symptoms as a result of this injury as a consequence of the permanent over extension of the important medial ligament at the base of the thumb. In addition to pain and swelling on the inner side of the thumb, the most characteristic symptom of this injury is instability.

Even the act involved in holding a pen is sometimes painful and this indicates that the consequences of this injury are often felt even in minor daily activities.

This thumb injury is most frequently encountered in skiers and it has even been given the nickname 'skier's thumb'. However, we also see this injury regularly in keepers and players in ball games that involve catching the ball (with a thumb firmly behind the ball), like handball, net ball and basket ball.

A frequently chosen form of therapy involves taping the joint or putting it into a plaster cast. Sometimes an operation may be necessary before a start can be made on recovery. Most therapeutic exercises are aimed at recovering the muscle power in the major thumb muscles. Specific power training can be necessary to regain clenching power and grip in a bid to limit instability.

However, this appears to be inadequate for sports in view of the extensive movements in the thumb, which cannot be compensated by muscular development alone. A tape bandage can be used to protect the joint from repeat injuries during sporting activities.

This involves using the finger is as a sort of splint (body splinting). A simpler, effective method of providing support is achieved using the PSB thumb brace.

When should you use a PSB thumb brace?

In the case of a skiers thumb we see residual instability (over extension) as the result of injury to the inner side of the thumb joint. The brace has been specifically developed to support this joint at the base of the thumb (also called MCP I).

Not suitable in case of:

The brace offers no specific support to the thumb joint at the wrist (also called CMC I) and is not suitable for use in case of inflammations of the joint (e.g. in the case of rheumatism), tendinitis (Quervain) or arthroses in this particular joint.

Pain is a warning signal. In case of long lasting pain or symptoms for which there is no clear indication, it is always advisable to consult your GP, physiotherapist or sports trainer.

Special properties:

The thumb brace provides support for the thumb when the thumb joint has become unstable as a consequence of a sprain to the joint ligaments. The tapes in the brace compensate for the over extension caused by the damaged ligament in the joint. The brace provides protection for the joint, including protection from jarring.

The undamaged parts of the thumb joint are left free and the tapes can be adjusted to allow the thumb to function normally. The brace leaves the wrist completely free and does not inhibit its movement


The PSB thumb brace is extremely comfortable and is easy to apply unaided, making it the ideal brace for sporting activities.


Choosing the size.

The PSB thumb brace is available in three sizes (see table on reverse) and in a left and right hand version.

To determine the correct size measure around the centre of your hand, under the knuckles (see figure). Try the brace on and check to see that it feels comfortable.

Easy to fit.

1. Ensure the two tapes are open.
2. Push your thumb through the opening near the cap and your little finger through the loop. Fasten the brace on the back of your hand.
3. Tighten the tape that passes across the palm of your hand and fasten this to the Velcro tape on the side where the little finger is (see figure 1).
4. Tighten the tape that passes over the back of your hand and fasten it to the Velcro tape by your little finger (see figure 2). Adjust the two tapes so that the thumb is well supported, but still retains the necessary freedom of movement.

Easy to wash.

Before washing close all Velcro fastenings. Do not wash at temperatures in excess of 40° C as this will damage the elasticity of the material. Allow your PSB Sport brace to dry naturally, do not put it into the dryer or on a radiator. To ensure a long and useful life, it is essential to allow your sport brace to dry out properly after sporting activity. Never keep it in your kitbag while it is still damp.

Proper use.

The brace leaves the wrist completely free and should not therefore, be pulled too far towards the wrist. This is unnecessary and it can also lead to too much pressure being put on both the thumb and the little finger.

When fastening the Velcro tapes on the back of the hand, make sure the ends are aligned, to avoid the possibility of skin irritation caused by the Velcro hooks.

Before use, check whether your sport brace shows any signs of damage or wear, which will reduce pressure and efficiency.