We Design – Silversplints
The Silver Lining in Orthopaedic Advancements

Silver has long been recognised for its therapeutic applications, from expediting wound healing to serving as a natural barrier against infections, thanks to its inherent antimicrobial properties.

Its longstanding reputation as a healing agent is being passionately upheld by We Design - Silversplints, a medical-technical production company harnessing the distinct qualities of the noble metal to develop orthopaedic devices.

While the art of crafting splints by silversmiths is not entirely new, Wouter Engelshoven, the founder of We Design, reimagined the traditional practice by integrating it with modern medical insights. Collaborating with experts in rheumatology, surgery, and rehabilitation, he has developed a portfolio of orthopaedic solutions that are advanced and medically effective.

“The ace up our sleeve is a multidisciplinary team of artisans who handcraft each splint to meet end-user specifications, a process further refined by state-of-the-art 3D modelling and 3D printing technology for customisation down to the finest details,” says Robert Groen, CEO.

In a healthcare landscape where cost-effectiveness is paramount, We Design’s ingenious blend of artisanal craftsmanship with 3D technology is leading the way.

Imagine someone requiring a finger splint. While the website provides visual information about the general shape and design, the real innovation lies in the precision offered. Using advanced software and 3D modelling technology, We Design tailors the splint to the exact ergonomic specifications of the patient’s finger, down to a quarter of a millimetre.

We Design has consciously decided to focus solely on Silversplints as aniche within the broader orthopaedic solutions space. This has led to a uniquely comprehensive portfolio, which covers splints for fingers, hands, and wrists. Approximately 80 percent of the company’s portfolio consists of patented designs, underscoring its commitment to innovation.

Adding to its unique standing is its location in the Netherlands, which is home to one of the world’s most prestigious silversmithing schools due to the rich trading history in precious metals and gemstones in the Amsterdam and Antwerp region.

This enables the company to maintain a dedicated team of skilled silversmiths and certified occupational therapists to continuously upgrade their solutions and become global leaders in this specialised field.

In the long run, the company’s goal is to redefine the standards set by traditional materials like leather, plastic, and silicone in every aspect that matters to patients— whether structural integrity, sustainability, or functional adaptability.

The open structure of its silver splints, for instance, improves aeration, reducing sweat accumulation and odours often associated with other materials. Add to that the water resistance of the silver splints; it allows wearers to come in contact with water without removing them. This makes it clear why many medical specialists choose for silver splints as a more hygienic solution for daily use.

Such features are particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like rheumatism, arthritis, or hypermobility who may require long-term splint usage. Knowing that silver is hypoallergenic, and the material is less susceptible to bacterial-related skin issues or infections provides peace of mind.

The ace up our sleeve is a multidisciplinary team of artisans who handcraft each splint to meet end-user specifications, a process further refined by state-of-the-art 3D modelling and 3D printing technology for customisation down to the finest details.

Perhaps unexpectedly, the silver splints have a lower annualized cost than many alternatives such as plastic products. “We Design creates zero excess waste in its production process and uses 100 percent recycled silver for sustainability, ecological, and human rights reasons,” says Groen. This material is highly durable, and the splints can last many years as the material can easily be readjusted to fit anatomical changes over time.

This makes it a financially savvy choice for long-term orthopaedic care. This stands in stark contrast to the environmental burden of plastics commonly used in traditional orthopaedic solutions.

The visual appeal of We Design’s silver splints, though not the primary objective, is also an invaluable supplementary benefit, introducing an uncommon dimension of aesthetic desirability among orthopaedic solutions that can profoundly impact patient acceptance.

Driven by these facets, one may say, the timeless art of silversmithing has indeed found a valuable purpose in the hands of We Design’s dedicated team. With We Design – Silversplints, the future of orthopaedics is not just promising; it’s a shining reality.