Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best Wrist Hand Brace

 Contents:

1. Anatomy of the wrist and hand
2. Types of braces
3. Indication guide

Anatomy of the hand and wrist

Your hand and wrist form a complex section of your body. With 27 bones, numerous ligaments, tendons, and other muscles, it is dynamic enough to perform the wide range of movements needed for daily life.

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This whole area can be divided into several different parts:

• The phalanges, commonly known as your fingers and thumbs, are responsible for fine motor skills.
• The metacarpal region, which is the middle of your hand. Your palm covers this area, and it acts as the foundation of any hand movement.
• The carpal bones, commonly known as the wrist, join your hand to your arm and guide movement.

Tendons

These are flexible rope-like cords of connective tissue that join muscle to bone. They run along your hand from the tip of your fingers to your wrist and mainly function to move the fingers.

Ligaments

Ligaments are bands of fibrous tissue that join bone to bone. While your hand has many bones, none of them are particularly large which means you have many smaller ligaments throughout the hand. They stabilise the joints and keep the bones moving in the right direction.

Bones

There are 27 bones in the hand and wrist, and they are split into three main sections. The interaction of bone and muscle in this area is one of the most complex in your entire body. Individually, these bones allow for complex, finer movements while also working together for stronger, broader movements.

Wrist braces and the injuries they treat

Whether it is a strained tendon, ruptured ligament, fractured bone, or an issue affecting the nerves, wearing the right brace or support can assist with symptom management, treatment and protecting against reinjury.

The support you select will depend on a few different factors including the injury or condition, your general health, lifestyle, and issues affecting other parts of your arm.

Brace type: Sleeve

Wrist sleeves cover the joint, they usually extend up to the top of the palm and down around a quarter of the way to your elbow.

Sleeves are often made from neoprene or elasticised polyester however higher quality sleeves use breathable materials which are much more comfortable to wear during warmer weather or for a prolonged period of time.

A wrist sleeve can range in complexity, sometimes as basic as a piece of fabric which covers the wrist. All the way to an anatomical fit with removable stays and adjustable strapping.

The main purpose of a wrist sleeve is to provide compression across the joint, which minimises swelling and pain, and to provide mild stability to the joint itself.

This type of brace is designed to allow the hand to still be used and they are most suitable for all day wear.

What wrist sleeves are best for

• Swelling
• Mild to moderate wrist pain
• Mild arthritis
• Mild instability
• Long-term post-op recovery from ligament and tendon damage
• Mild nerve issues
• Mild to moderate tendinitis

When looking for a good wrist sleeve, follow the below tips:

• Comfortable anatomic fit: A good sleeve should conform to the shape of your wrist, arm and hand and stay flush against the skin with minimal bulging through all ranges of movement.
• Sizing system: Check to see if there is an extensive sizing system that caters to your wrist and surrounding anatomy. Generic sizing systems offering one size fits all or a small/medium/large may not provide the comfort and desired therapeutic benefit.
• Medical grade compression: Rather than just being firm fitting, the ideal compression is medical grade as it provides support to the whole joint while giving strength back to the wrist.
• Breathable cool material: Wearing a sleeve all day can have great benefits, but if it keeps overheating and getting sweaty, itchy, and stuffy then it’s not going to be comfortable.
• Massaging and soothing: A sleeve with gel support minimises tension in the muscles and soothes.

The ManuTrain Wrist Support is an ideal sleeve. It combines medical-grade compression and gel support with a strap that allows for adjustable levels of support.

Brace type: Splint

Wrist splints are the next step up from a sleeve, designed to provide partial or full immobilisation of the wrist joint.

Often incorporating the core build of a sleeve, a splint contains rigid components which run along from the forearm below the wrist, up past to the centre of the hand. The rigid components are made from hard plastic or a lightweight metal alloy.

Strapping is ideal as it allows for the support to be adjusted throughout the recovery of your wrist.

Splints provide two primary functions depending on their design. Basic splints emulate a “half cast” design, which covers one part of the wrist to prevent movement in that direction.

More advanced splints provide adjustable rigidity along the whole joint, not only restricting potentially harmful movement but also unloading the joint to alleviate internal pressure on nerves and bones.

What splint wrist braces are best for:

• Moderate wrist pain
• Moderate to severe arthritis
• Nerve pain
• Post-op recovery
• Fractures
• Moderate to severe tendinitis

When selecting a splint, these are some key things to look for

• Comfortable anatomic fit: A good wrist splint should comfortably sit on your wrist without any bulky or protruding parts. If it has excessive pressure on any one part of your wrist, look for something more well-fitting.
• Sizing system: Check to see if there is an extensive sizing system that caters to your wrist. Generic sizing systems offering one size fits all or a small/medium/large may not provide the comfort and desired therapeutic benefit.
• Breathable lightweight design: A wrist splint that still allows air to circulate over the skin helps recovery of the wrist and a lightweight construction means you can get on with your daily activities with minimal interruption.
• Targeted restriction: A wrist splint should comfortably allow your fingers and thumbs to move as normal, and allow for slight movement of your muscles and tendons. If it completely locks your wrist and hand, then you are at wrist of muscle wastage.

Brace type: Digit splint

Your thumbs and fingers (collectively known as your digits) might seem to move independently, but they all stretch down to your wrist connected by tendons and ligaments.

When they are injured, it is important to immobilise them to allow for recovery. Most splints are made from a simple lightweight fabric with a rigid component, with some including strapping or Velcro to allow for adjustability.

What digit splints are best for

• Tendinitis of the thumb
• Jarred digits
• Fractures
• Nerve issues
• Arthritis

When selecting a digit splint, there are a couple of key things to look for:

• Slim fit: Any splint should keep the targeted digit supported and stabilised while still allowing for free movement of the rest of the hand.
• Comfort design: If your finger or thumb is in pain, a support should alleviate that. If it is causing undue pressure or pain, ditch it for something better.

While finger splints are quite uncommon, thumb splints are often used due to the thumb’s interaction with the wrist. The RhizoLoc Thumb Splint is a lightweight adjustable splint perfect for most conditions affecting the thumb.

Brace type: Combined wrist brace

The hand and wrist are made up of several main areas and they can be affected as a whole, or independently.

While most wrist braces target just one part of the wrist, a ‘combined support’ is able to target multiple areas to provide a more effective overall solution.

These supports most commonly integrate the same construction as a wrist splint and a sleeve, and can also incorporate digit splints, palm stays and more.

What combined wrist braces are best for

• Severe arthritis
• Chronic nerve issues
• Moderate to severe instability
• Spasticity, weakness, or contracture
• Severe or multiple fractures
• Post-op recovery

What to look for in a combined wrist brace

• Comfortable anatomic fit: A well-made combined brace should comfortably sit on your wrist and hand without any bulky or protruding parts.
• Sizing system: Look for an extensive sizing system that caters to your wrist and surrounding anatomy. Generic sizing systems offering one size fits all or a small/medium/large may not provide the comfort and desired therapeutic benefit.
• Breathable lightweight design: Being made from a lightweight construction means you can get on with your daily activities with minimal interruption.
• Adjustability: When needing stabilisation of multiple parts of your wrist and hand, it is essential that you can easily change the support and immobilisation of the support from day to day to suit you at any given point.

When looking at combined braces, you cannot go past the ManuLoc Rhizo. Combining the best in support, stability, adjustability, and comfort, it’s perfect for recovery, management and rehab.

Brace type: Wrist strap

Wrist straps are not technically braces but rather mild support. They are usually made from neoprene or elastic polyester, with more effective straps having a more rigid material that can be adjusted by strapping or Velcro.

These are normally quite small and simple, covering only the wrist joint and no other part of the arm or hand.

What wrist straps are best for

While they are simple, there are a range of conditions which they are ideal for treating, including:

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• Mild instability
• Mild tendinitis
• Early indications of arthritis
• Recovery from mild injury

What to look for in a wrist strap

• Breathable cool material: Wearing a strap can have great benefits, but if it keeps overheating and getting sweaty, itchy and stuffy then it’s not going to help. Make sure it is something that you can play sports or work in comfortably.
• Stabilising: The strap should unload the wrist slightly, stabilising the joint and alleviating most of the pain.

The Sports Wrist strap is a lightweight breathable strap that is easy to adjust, exercise and work in.

Indication Guide

There are a wide range of conditions which affect the wrist, from nerve issues caused by strokes to tendinitis from repetitive strain. Whatever the issue, it is crucial to get the right support for your wrist.

Below are some of the more common issues affecting the wrist and hand, as well as what is most effective Bauerfeind Wrist Brace. If you cannot find your condition, or you would like more help, please give our office a call and one of our trained staff will help you find the right product for you.

Wrist braces are designed to support recovery and help relieve pain for many different conditions. However, with so many options available, choosing the right orthopedic wrist brace can be overwhelming. In this guide, we walk you through key factors to consider when selecting the best wrist brace for optimal comfort, pain relief, and healing.

Considerations for Choosing a Wrist Brace

Wrist pain can be debilitating, interfering with daily activities and your overall well-being. A well-chosen wrist brace can provide essential support, alleviate discomfort, and aid in recovery.

From determining sizing to understanding support levels, read on to explore everything you need to know to find the ideal wrist brace for optimal comfort and healing.

Size and Fit

A properly sized brace provides the necessary support to the wrist, helping to prevent further complications, reduce pain, and facilitate healing. An ill-fitting wrist brace can cause irritation or discomfort and compromise the healing process.

Here are some important factors to keep in mind when determining the best size and fit of a wrist brace:

• Measure your wrist: To ensure a proper fit, measure the circumference of your wrist, as well as the widest part of your hand. Most wrist brace manufacturers offer sizing charts featuring these measurements to help guide you to the best option.
• Consider adjustability: Many braces offer adjustable straps, allowing for a customized fit, which can be especially helpful if you are experiencing swelling.
• Consult a healthcare professional: If you're unsure about the right size or type of brace, consult with a doctor or physical therapist.

Material

The material of a wrist brace significantly impacts its effectiveness and comfort. The severity of an injury, the required level of support, and personal preferences will all help determine the best brace material for your specific needs. 

Here are some key considerations for wrist brace materials: 

• Support: Fabrics like neoprene or elastic fabrics provide gentle support, compression, and warmth making them ideal for chronic conditions. While more rigid materials like aluminum or plastic stays offer maximum support and immobilization for severe injuries.
• Breathability: Breathable materials like cotton, bamboo, and mesh help prevent skin irritation and moisture buildup to enhance comfort, especially during prolonged wear.
• Comfort: Soft, hypoallergenic, and moisture wicking materials help prevent discomfort and are ideal for sensitive skin. Some braces also incorporate gel padding for added comfort and shock absorption.
• Washability: A brace that can be easily cleaned will help maintain hygiene. Look for materials that are machine-washable or can be hand-washed.

Support Level

The severity of your wrist injury or condition will determine the level of support needed. A mild sprain might require a lightweight support wrap, while a fracture might necessitate a rigid immobilization brace. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate support level for your specific needs.

Mild Wrist Support

For mild conditions, a wrist sleeve or a wrist wrap can help reduce pain and inflammation to promote recovery.

Moderate Wrist Support

For conditions like chronic pain, arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, tendonitis, and sprains, adjustable wrist braces can provide moderate support when you need it most.

Maximum Wrist Support

If you’re recovering from surgery or an injury, recently got a cast removed, or are experiencing chronic pain, a rigid wrist brace or a stabilizer brace can offer maximum support.

Types of Wrist Braces

There are many different types of wrist braces available, each designed for specific purposes, conditions, and support levels. Your injury or condition will be the biggest determining factor in choosing the best type of wrist brace for your needs.  

Below, we list some common types of wrist braces and what they are generally used to treat. 

Wrist Sleeves

A wrist sleeve provides targeted support to reduce pain, inflammation, and accelerate the body’s natural healing process. Sleeves like the Incrediwear Wrist Sleeve are made from a breathable and moisture wicking fabric, and are used to improve blood flow, soothe pain, and reduce swelling.

Wrist sleeves offer mild support and can help alleviate symptoms associated with: 

• Sports Injuries
• Sprains
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Arthritis
• Ligament injuries

Wrist Wraps

Wrist wraps offer adjustable support using Velcro straps which make them easy to take on and off. A great example is the Hely & Weber Gel Wrist Wrap, which is made from neoprene, which is a soft and comfortable compression fabric. It also features a contoured gel pad infused with vitamin E mineral oil to support scar maturation, absorb shock, and soothe pain.

Wrist wraps offer mild to moderate support and help alleviate symptoms associated with:

• Mild injuries or sprains
• Mild cases of conditions like tendinitis
• And more

Rigid Wrist Braces

Rigid wrist braces offer the highest level of support and immobilization. They are typically made from a supportive fabric and incorporate a hard plastic or metal component (stays) for added support and movement restriction.

A great example of this is the Hely & Weber Titan Wrist Brace. This rigid wrist brace features removable palmar and dorsal stays, which is a popular option for “step-down” rehabilitation.

Ridgid wrist braces offer maximum support and are often used for:

• Severe sprains or fractures
• Post-surgery recovery
• Chronic conditions like Arthritis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• And more

Thumb Stabilizer Brace

A thumb stabilizer brace is designed to immobilize the thumb at the base of the palm, while still allowing free movement of your other fingers. For instance, the Hely & Weber CMC Controller Plus thumb brace provides effective pain relief and stability without interfering with everyday activities.

A thumb stabilizer brace offers moderate to maximum support and is commonly used to treat:

• Gamekeeper’s Thumb
• Strains
• Sprains
• Nerve issues
• CMC Arthritis
• And more

Find the Best Orthopedic Brace for Comfort and Healing Today

Whether you’re searching for daily support or recovering from an injury, finding the best wrist brace for your specific needs is essential. At Orthopedic Outfitters, we have decades of experience providing the best orthopedic physical therapy products to both clinicians and consumers. Take your recovery to the next level by browsing our selection of orthopedic braces today.

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