About Wrist Braces
Wrist braces are available in a variety of styles, materials and sizes that have been specifically designed to provide support to the wrist area. They can be worn while engaging in sports such as tennis, bowling or archery and are also worn to help address issues stemming from health, work or sports-related problems such as carpal tunnel, arthritis, sprains, tendonitis and strains.
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Function
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Wrist braces serve several useful purposes by way of their unique designs. They provide direct support to the wrist or wrist and forearm by limiting the amount of stress and unnecessary movement of the wrist. The immobilization and restriction of the wrist can help ease the pain and discomfort associated with wrist related injuries and promote healing to the wrist after surgery.
Features
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The glove like brace fits securely over the wrist with a loop over the thumb to prevent slipping and may have a support rod or padded cushions beneath the brace. Braces are lightweight and may cover the wrist only or wrist and part of the forearm or include the forearm to the elbow. Materials range from soft suede and knits to polyester and cotton blends and may have cinch straps with hooks or Velcro straps to adjust the tightness of the brace. Some models have air vents to help prevent sweating.
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Benefits
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Wrist braces provide necessary support to the wrist while allowing the fingers to be free and unaffected by the brace, making them a useful aid in the workplace when repetitive hand motions are continually used. The support rod absorbs pressure and keeps the wrist in a neutral position allowing it to relax by preventing bending and repeating movements. There are braces made specifically for use at night when sleeping.
Tips
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Adjust the tension of the brace by loosening the strap or adjusting the Velcro so the brace is not too tight and affecting circulation in the hand and wrist. Braces are available that have both heat and ice packs to help with therapy. Wrist braces are available in specific sizes or in one-size-fits-all wrap-around designs. Some are interchangeable between right and left hands while others are specifically designed for one hand or the other.
Warning
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Consult your doctor before buying a wrist brace so he can determine if a wrist brace is necessary and needs to be worn or if wearing a brace will aggravate or enhance the problem. The doctor can also determine what style would provide the best support and prescribe any specific instructions regarding when, where and how long the wrist brace should be worn.
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