Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) might begin as a bit of ache in your hand or a tingling sensation that travels down to your fingers, but the symptoms can increase with time, resulting in chronic pain or numbness. If left untreated, CTS may make routine tasks such as typing at the computer complex. Wrist braces are an inexpensive therapy option that you may attempt at home to alleviate your problems by consulting a doctor or physical therapist.
Wrist braces maintain a neutral posture at the wrist, reducing pain perception and alleviating the symptoms of CTS. Plastic or metal splints are included in most wrist braces to assist in keeping your wrist in place and minimizing unintentional twisting or bending.
The materials, fit, feel, and additional features and pricing of several carpal tunnel braces were examined. Nowadays, there are many excellent carpal tunnel braces on the market.
Wrist braces aid in keeping your wrist in a neutral posture while also protecting, stabilizing, and supporting it. Props for the wrist relieve pressure on the median nerve, responsible for CTS.
Aside from reducing pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by repetitive strain injuries and disorders such as arthritis and tendonitis, wrist braces may also help prevent injuries and conditions. In addition, they may aid in the recovery process after an accident or surgical intervention.
Before buying a wrist brace, it’s good to check with your doctor to be sure it’s right for you.
11 Benefits of Hand Braces
1. Stability of your wrist
The restricted movement has an immediate effect on the stability of the wrists. It is more probable that the wrist will remain in the same position and prevent worsening the injury if it cannot move at all. It may result in a restricted range of motion, but it may also help recuperation.
2. Swelling is reduced
Swelling is less likely to occur if the afflicted region is less irritated. The inflammation tends to influence other nerves in the area whenever the swelling intrudes on them; therefore, a decrease in inflammation may also reduce pain.
3. Safety
An ergonomic wrist brace may give additional protection while you are healing from an injury. While it may limit mobility, it also provides a protective covering over the wounded site, which aids in healing. Those recovering from surgery may also benefit significantly from the support provided by a brace.
4. Less intrusive
However, it is essential to remember that specific ergonomic wrist braces allow for finger and thumb mobility, which is less bothersome than many orthopedic therapies. The brace or splint type and severity of the injury may affect how long it takes to heal. However, most people find that the braces are less disruptive to their daily routines than expected.
5. Recovery after surgery
Patients who have had wrist surgery may benefit from wearing a wrist brace to keep the surgical site safe and speed up the healing process.
6. No daily activity restriction
Wrist braces provide patients with one of the most adaptable wearing experiences of any orthopedic brace, which should emphasize them. Orthopedic supports may be intimidating for patients who are afraid they would impede their everyday routines, so they avoid using them or even wearing them.
Specific wrist braces enable the user to move their finger and thumb joints, enabling them to carry out their regular daily routines again. It is common for people to utilize them for tasks that require a lot of wrist and hand movement. Consequently, these braces promote sleep by protecting and immobilizing the wrist, which reduces discomfort.
Wrist discomfort reduced by 32% in individuals who wore braces throughout the day for four weeks, according to research published in the American College of Rheumatology’s publication, JAMA. They also saw a 5% boost in their grip strength.
7. Helpful in alleviating pain
Physicians often prescribe wrist braces to patients who suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or other conditions that cause constant pain, tingling, and discomfort in the wrist. There are many possible reasons for wrist pain, but the most common cure supplied and suggested by medical specialists is to wear a wrist brace.
8. Improve life quality
Wearing a brace improves the patients’ quality of life, particularly when suffering from long-term diseases like arthritis. It aids patients in coping with the discomfort and agony that come along with their illness.
9. Workplace
Using a computer mouse and keyboard all day long might induce wrist pain. Practicing correct ergonomics, such as sitting in a healthy posture at the desk, or acquiring ergonomic equipment, such as a keyboard and mouse, may help avoid future health issues. Even with sufficient wrist support, sitting at a computer for extended periods may create discomfort.
10. Aesthetic experience
It doesn’t matter if you’re a casual player or a professional gamer; many of you will spend hours using a keyboard, mouse, or controller. And many of these hand braces come in various designs and styles which may satisfy your aesthetic needs and comfort.
11. Organizing Shelves
You can find premium splints in practically any supermarket or retail shop. Wrist overuse necessitates the use of splints and braces. There are several splints on the market that claim to assist you in avoiding injury or alleviating current pain. If worn, they must be carefully selected and securely secured. It includes those who work in warehouses and those who transport goods. The wrist might experience strain from the constant action.
We’ve compiled a list of the top wrist braces on the market. You’ll learn about their advantages, how to use them, and what to look for when you go shopping.
Our top picks
by ComfyBrace
Night Wrist Sleep Support Brace -ComfyBrace
If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, you’re undoubtedly well aware of how easy it is to fall asleep in a posture exacerbating your wrist discomfort. The ComfyBrace Night Wrist Sleep Support Brace, unlike other bulky braces, is meant to be worn comfortably throughout the night without causing pain.
As an alternative to a metal splint, it offers compression and stability through cushioned beads that tailors to the specific form of your hand. It is also composed of a lightweight material that helps your skin breathe, preventing your hand from becoming overheated and sweaty overnight.
PROS
- Lightweight for pleasant sleep
- You can wear it on either wrist
- Treats wrist pain
- Adjustable
CONS
- Only one size offered
- Hard to modify for people with limited mobility
by BraceUP
Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace by BraceUP for Men and Women
The Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace is an ambidextrous, adjustable design that allows it to accommodate various hand and wrist sizes without restriction. The brace helps relieve the discomfort, inflammation, and irritation that might result from repeated motions. The lightweight design offers support and stability without limiting movement, allowing you to type or conduct other related tasks with more freedom.
PROS
- Hand and wrist support with a metal splint
- Tendonitis Arthritis Pain Relief
CONS
- Some users have reported that the thumb hole can be too tight
by Dr.Welland
Dr. Welland Reversible Thumb & Wrist Stabilizer splint
The Dr. Welland Reversible Thumb & Wrist Stabilizer splint is adjustable, unlike other wrist braces, which need you to specify your wrist circumference (or have a measuring tape ready to take your measurements before you purchase). The two adjustable straps provide a comfortable compression fit for most users.
The brace is a lighter, breathable mesh fabric with memory foam cushioning for added comfort and support. It also features two supports, a splint, and a stabilizer, that run along the top and bottom of the brace, respectively. You may also wear it around the home, at the gym, and even to bed.
PROS
- Memory foam cushion
- Comfortable and light enough for sleeping
- The design is adjustable
by Copper Compression
Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves
If you have tendonitis, arthritis, or CTS, the Cooper Compression Wrist Brace can help you feel more stable and comfortable. The adjustable brace restricts movement to avoid aggravating pain while still enabling enough range of motion for daily tasks. It gives your wrist compression and protection, enabling it to relax, heal, and recover.
The Cooper Compression Wrist Brace has copper-infused fabric with antibacterial characteristics that may help to reduce odor. It is also lightweight and comfortable enough to wear all day. The brace is ambidextrous and comes in two sizes to accommodate different body types.
PROS
- Four sizes available
- Hand-focused compression material
- Copper-infused to decrease inflammation
CONS
- Adjustable
- Not the longest-lasting
by ComfyBrace
Comfy Brace Arthritis Hand Compression Gloves
The ComfyBrace Wrist Brace is an ergonomic, adjustable design that allows it to accommodate various hand and wrist sizes without restriction. The brace helps relieve the discomfort, inflammation, and irritation that might result from repeated motions. The lightweight design offers stability without limiting movement, allowing you to type or conduct other related tasks with more freedom.
PROS
- Wrist support with cushioned beads
- Lightweight for a good night’s sleep
- Use on either wrist
CONS
- It’s difficult to modify for those who have mobility issues
- Only one size is available
by Mueller
Mueller Sports Medicine Adjust-to-Fit Thumb Stabilizer, For Men and Women
The Mueller Carpal Tunnel Wrist Stabilizer has breathable fabrics free of latex and neoprene. It has a detachable metal spoon and cushioned side splints for enhanced comfort and support. The brace helps strengthen and stabilize your wrist, allowing you to go about your daily activities without discomfort.
PROS
- It prevents you from moving beyond your range of motion
- It also helps to alleviate discomfort
- There are two sizes available
CONS
- Not for long-term usage
- Some hands’ thumbholes are tiny
Choosing the right carpal tunnel brace
Material
Various materials, including neoprene, may be used to make wrist braces, but any soft, flexible fabric will work. You should experiment with a few different alternatives to find which one you like the most. Braces are available in various materials, and the most comfortable material for you is the greatest choice for you.
Comfortability of fit
Brands that provide numerous fit sizes or adjustable braces can assist you in finding the most comfortable fit for you. You must also pay close attention to the side of the wrist. Men’s and women’s braces and braces for both the left and right hands are available from several manufacturers.
Design
Start by searching for a brace that covers the hand from the wrist to the forearm; however, if you search for carpal tunnel braces, you’ll discover whole arm braces, gloves, and sometimes even bracelets available.
Consider a less expensive choice such as a simple hand and forearm brace if your wrist discomfort is only modest at this time. If you need carpal tunnel assistance at work or in a public setting, you may choose to wear something a little more stylish, such as an ergonomic wrist brace.
Bracing aims to keep the wrist in a neutral position to reduce pressure inside the carpal tunnel syndrome. In contrast, the wristlet [kind of brace] is not anything that I have ever seen suggested by a medical professional for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Conclusion
Wrist braces hold your wrist in a neutral posture, which may alleviate wrist stiffness and inflammation, according to the manufacturer. They keep repeated motions to a minimum, which is beneficial in treating illnesses such as arthritis and tendinitis. In addition, specific wrist braces help alleviate compression of the nerve roots, which is the source of carpal tunnel syndrome.
The Mueller Fitted Wrist Brace (see on Amazon) is an excellent choice for anybody looking for a flexible brace that provides support without limiting movement when it comes to wrist braces. When it comes to wrist support when sleeping, the ComfyBrace Night Wrist Sleep Support Brace (see on Amazon) is a good choice since it’s lightweight, simple to put on, and provides a lot more comfort than other options so that it won’t interfere with your sleep.
Use this list to choose a high-quality, effective wrist brace that meets your specific requirements. If a wrist brace does not give symptom alleviation, consult with your doctor to discuss other treatment options for your condition.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
When should you see the doctor?
Following a few weeks of using a wrist brace, consult with your physician if your symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome or another ailment do not improve or worsen.
They may recommend a new design or therapies such as wrist or nerve gliding exercises, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), or corticosteroid injections.
Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments like acupuncture, physical rehabilitation, and yoga.
If noninvasive treatments fail to alleviate symptoms within three months, you may require surgery. It, on the other hand, is not frequent.
How long should one wear a carpal tunnel brace if you have it?
Only wear a brace for around 10-14 days before seeking medical attention for your condition. Joints can become stiff or painful if you don’t do this. If you are still experiencing discomfort after 10-14 days, speak with your doctor about your treatment options.
The safest and most suitable technique for treating CTS is to take it step by step, with the first line of therapy being nocturnal bracing. Start using nightly bracing if there is any suspicion that a patient is suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome with characteristic symptoms.
Is the way you sleep related to your carpal tunnel syndrome?
Yes. Most individuals sleep with their wrists curled in, which may put more pressure on the median nerve, which is the nerve that is affected by carpal tunnel syndrome, while they are asleep. It keeps the patient’s wrist in a neutral posture while they sleep and prevents them from bending their wrist while they are sleeping.
What is the ideal tension for a wrist brace for carpal tunnel syndrome?
A carpal tunnel brace must be tight enough to support without becoming unpleasant. If the region becomes numb, tingling, or difficult to move, it may be excessively tight.
The most suitable brace has a solid portion that lies along the palmar surface of the wrist and hand since this will provide the greatest support. The brace should be sufficiently supporting. Identify a brace that offers solid support and keeps the wrist in an extended posture.
