Silversplints for EDS: More stability, less pain and better hand function

Living with EDS: how Silversplints helped Esmée regain her hobby and independence

“Such lifesavers! My Silversplints significantly reduce my pain and give me back strength in my hands.” – Esmée

EDS and joints that frequently dislocate

For people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), everyday activities are not always a given. Joints can be unstable, frequently dislocate, and cause pain. Especially in the hands, fingers, and wrists, this can have a major impact on independence and quality of life.

Esmée knows this all too well.

In 2020, she was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a hereditary connective tissue disorder in which joints are excessively flexible. For Esmée, this meant that her fingers, hands, and wrists constantly caused problems.

“Joints kept dislocating and I had a lot of loss of strength in my hands. That is especially difficult when you depend on a wheelchair.”

Due to her health condition, Esmée had to stop her nursing studies. Today, she spends a lot of time at home, often in bed. Still, she tries to make the best of her situation every day.

From daily limitations to more stability

As her symptoms increasingly affected her daily life, her rehabilitation physician referred her for Silversplints.

Silversplints are custom-made silver finger splints that support the joints without fully restricting necessary movement. They are often used for conditions such as EDS, hypermobility, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

For Esmée, the splints made an almost immediate difference.

“In the first months I still took them off at night, but now I wear them 24/7. They significantly reduce the pain and my joints no longer constantly dislocate.”

More control over daily life

For many people with EDS, simple tasks such as writing, cooking, typing, or holding a phone can be tiring or painful. The added joint stability helps distribute daily strain more evenly.

Esmée also notices this difference every day.

“I have regained some strength in my hands. That makes a huge difference in everything I do.”

One of her greatest passions is crocheting—a hobby that requires precision, grip, and endurance.

“I taught myself how to crochet and do it every day. That is absolutely made possible by my Silversplints.”

A tool that doesn’t feel like a medical device

What makes Silversplints unique is that they are not only functional. They are handcrafted from silver and therefore resemble jewelry.

For Esmée, this is an important advantage.

“I often receive compliments on my splints. People are usually surprised when I tell them they are actually medical devices. Who says aids can’t be beautiful? These certainly are!”

Many users proudly wear their splints, seeing them as both support and a personal style accessory.

Why are Silversplints used for EDS?

In Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, joints can move beyond their natural range due to instability. This can lead to:

• Pain in fingers and hands

• Fatigue due to muscle overuse

• Reduced grip strength

• Frequent joint dislocations

• Difficulty performing daily activities

Silversplints support the joint exactly where needed, reducing strain and protecting it during daily use.

Because every hand is unique, the splints are individually fitted by specialized healthcare professionals.

“My Silversplints gave me back part of my quality of life”

For Esmée, the benefits are clear.

“I would even like additional splints for other joints. My Silversplints have given me back part of my quality of life, and I am incredibly grateful for that.”

Her story shows that a medical aid can mean much more than physical support. More stability can lead to greater independence, the ability to pursue hobbies, and increased confidence in daily life.

Do you recognize these symptoms?

Do you have EDS, hypermobility, rheumatoid arthritis, or osteoarthritis and experience pain or instability in your fingers, hands, or wrists? Silversplints may provide support.

Contact a certified healthcare professional for advice or learn more about the different types of Silversplints.

About Esmée

Esmée lives in Hoorn and has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Despite the challenges of her condition, she continues to look for ways to stay active and creative. Her daily hobby, crocheting, is a perfect example. Thanks to her Silversplints, she can continue this passion and experiences more stability and comfort in her daily life.

Meet her on Instagram! Click here!