What is Carpal Tunnel?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a medical condition caused by the compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist at the carpal tunnel. The main symptoms are pain, numbness, and tingling, in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the thumb side of the ring fingers.
How Does a Wrist Brace Help Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
A carpal tunnel wrist brace is designed to provide smooth and controlled resistance to extreme range of motion. The brace is a drug-free and non-invasive way to support the wrist and hand and immobilize the joint. These braces are designed to be lightweight and comfortable for everyday use.
Who Should Use a Wrist Splint?
People with mild carpal tunnel can use a wrist splint. If regularly wearing a splint doesn’t improve symptoms then it could be time to talk to a doctor about alternative solutions, like getting cortisone injections or even surgery in severe cases.
When Should You Wear the Wrist Splint?
Wearing a wrist splint at nighttime during periods of sleep is important to restrict involuntary motion. When a pain sufferer wears a wrist splint during sleep, they ensure their wrist is straight and no excess pressure is being placed on the nerve.
Many individuals wear wrist splints while working, especially if their job requires hand motion like typing. Working at a cashier, keyboard, or assembly line can all be hard on the joints and nerves in the wrist and hands.
Which Splint is Best for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
There are a variety of splints made specifically for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Below are three top performing wrist splints and braces that can be used to stabilize the wrist and reduce pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Ossur ExoForm Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace
Features and Benefits:
- Contoured for an anatomically correct fit
- Lightweight low profile design
- 20% less circumferential bulk than other brands
- More room at base of the thumb, palmar crease and 5th MP for full MP flexion
- Designed to provide smooth, controlled resistance to extreme range of motion
- Pre-shaped into a neutral position for comfortable limited motion/flexibility
- Provides radial and ulnar styloid relief
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Active CT Lacer Wrist Support
Features and Benefits:
- The brace is designed to stabilize weak, unstable wrists or aid in the healing of chronic or acute injuries.
- Aluminum stays hold the wrist in a neutral, cock-up position for proper healing.
- Material is cut to allow full hand motion while limiting wrist flexion and extension.
- Contoured palmar and dorsal stays are removable and adjustable and provide a low profile and intimate fit.
When is it Time to Seek Additional Treatment for CTS?
If wearing splints and changing your movement does not help with the pain of your CTS, it could be time to seek medical treatment or advice. Injections are sometimes used to provide relief for months or even years. However, these shots can weaken tissue over time, making them a poor choice for maintenance.
In more severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery. The CTS surgery has a high success rate for many patients. Most people can return to regular activities within six weeks. Always consult with your doctor to see which treatment is best suited to your health needs.