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A wrist splint will have different functions depending on the model. Just like for the ankle or the knee, it will relieve the wrist and forearm by reducing tension and limiting wrist movements.
There can then be a total immobilization, or a simple limitation of the movements of the joint, in order to allow healing or to relieve some pain.
The Different Types Of Wrist Splint
A wrist splint is often used for a sprain, tendonitis, or even rheumatoid arthritis. It is a small device aimed at stabilizing the joints in order to reduce inflammation, correct a deformation or facilitate movement. Depending on the patient’s objective, we will turn either to a global resting splint or to a partial functional splint.
Functional wrist splint
This type of splint is a medical device that runs from the middle of the forearm and is held at thumb level. It specifically aims to stabilize the wrist as best as possible to reduce pain and allow better functional recovery of the joint, without preventing finger movements.
It can be rigid aluminum coming under the palm of the hand, or dorsal. In both cases, they will support and reduce the movements of the joint. It is a light device that is often recommended in the case of a sprain, arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
It is a privileged recovery aid that does not prevent the user from continuing to live while carrying out their daily activities. It is easy to put on or take off thanks to a system of straps or bracelets. The structure is always made of breathable fabric and its shape will guarantee optimal comfort and very good tolerance in the vast majority of patients.
Hand, wrist and thumb splint
It is a slightly more complex splint than the one above, since it also stabilizes the thumb in addition to the wrist. The thumb remains in the functional position, however, it is blocked by rigid splints. The other fingers remain perfectly free, and thus the ability to take hold of everyday objects is not impaired.
This type of splint is used for osteoarthritis of the base of the thumb (Rhizarthrosis), for traumatic pathologies such as a wrist fracture, a sprain or tendonitis of the tendons of the thumb. It is also very useful for Quervain’s disease or for degenerative diseases such as carpal tunnel syndrome or rheumatoid arthritis. It is also a device that is used during rehabilitation, after an operation of the muscles or tendons of the arm, wrist or thumb.
Global rest splint
We speak of a global resting splint, or a global resting orthosis, because it completely immobilizes the wrist and the whole hand. It passes over the forearm to block the wrist then descends towards until the fingertips.
We say what is rest since it comes to completely immobilize the entire wrist of the hand which can therefore no longer make the slightest effort. The splint blocks the joints in a well-defined position in order to relieve painful tensions, avoid retractions which could stiffen the mobility of the hand, and reduce muscle contractures.
This type of splint is always made by an appliance or an occupational therapist who will check at least once a year that the device is still doing its job. Otherwise, there will be a readjustment or even a replacement if the splint has become uncomfortable or unsuitable.
This splint is only used during rest hours, and is then removed when you want to start an activity. It is therefore generally worn all night and a few hours during the day when you no longer work
The Use Of A Splint
Depending on the type of splint, there are 3 types of use:
- For a severe sprain, or post-traumatic rehabilitation (in some cases), the splint always remains on the wrist and does not withdraw until you meet the doctor or physiotherapist, or when you clean the splint. We will keep it almost all the time, until the doctor decides otherwise.
- To reduce inflammation, pain, or avoid deformities, a resting splint is used. It will be worn during daytime hours of rest, as well as at night when our arms are not in use.
- Finally, the function splint leaving the fingers free will be worn during activities to facilitate our movements or protect the wrist joint as best as possible. We then compensate for some failures without too many constraints, and we avoid that deformations occur.
A custom-made splint or a standard splint?
There is no obligation and a standard splint can be as effective as a custom-made splint, in any case for functional splints. For a resting splint, in particular to adjust a deformation, then a custom-made splint will be compulsory.
A standard splint is adjusted and tightened each time, while a custom-made splint is easier to install. In both cases it is not very complicated anyway.
Whichever you choose, the splint must be efficient, allow maximum movement and provide as optimal comfort as possible. If you are irritated on certain points of support, it is because you have to change your splint or do a touch-up.
Support for a wrist splint
When a splint is prescribed by a doctor or a rheumatologist, especially in the case of polyarthritis, then the management is 100%. For other pathologies, treatment is partial up to 70%.
Of course, your complementary health can take the supplement at his expense, it all depends on the type of contract to which you have signed. If you do not have a prescription, then the splint will be entirely at your expense.
It should also be noted that some devices require a prior agreement, and you will need the agreement of Social Security to have a refund. Do not buy the splint before having received this agreement.
The 4 best wrist splints to support your joints and fingers
There are several varieties of wrist splints on the market, and I was able to test a dozen models to select the best 4.
Based more on the immobilization, healing and protection capacity of the wrist joint, I was particularly seduced by Mueller Green Fitted Wrist Brace
I would like to share with you my opinion on each of the orthotics in my selection to help you recognize the model that fits your situation.
1. Mueller Wrist Splint With Thumb
The most effective in preventing and relieving wrist pain.
If you suffer from a sprain or strain on your fingers, wearing this accessory would be a possible solution to speed up recovery. Its thumb orthosis serves to stabilize the articular part between the wrist and the base of the thumb.
It will also be beneficial for you to put on this wrist splint if you have an insensitive or painful hand that lacks strength due to a condition called carpal tunnel syndrome.
It warms the wrist joint to relieve it from a form of rheumatism caused by a violent shock during a sports or professional activity. The permanent wearing of this splint quickly reduces inflammation of the tendon.
I would also like to inform you that the frequent problem of ligament injuries (wrist that seems to be spread) can be resolved by simply wearing this wrist splint. It squeezes your hand a little, but to adjust it correctly to your size, it is possible to adjust the degree of compression from its 3 straps.
It reduces joint fatigue and keeps your wrist warm. The thumb protection is very flexible and its immobilization is optimal in order to limit its movements.
I fell in love with this wrist splint because of its practicality. It can easily put it on with one hand, and the thin Velcro straps are very handy.
This orthosis is very comfortable. Its breathable fabric warms the muscles, but does not retain the moisture resulting from perspiration. In addition, the thumb seems well locked, but the other fingers are free in their movement.
Unlike most splint models that wash at low temperatures, it is made of fibers that do not drop under the effect of hot water. I suggest you clean it manually with a mild detergent.
Before placing your order, measure your wrist size. If it is between 13.9 and 26.6 cm, the splint will suit you perfectly.
If you order an adjustable model, your protective accessory would guarantee optimal immobilization for your joint, but would promote good blood circulation.
WE love :
- Its 3 adjustable straps offering a correct adjustment of the accessory to the wrist;
- Its thin Velcro straps easy to handle;
- His thumb immobilizer;
- Its practicality and comfortable wearing;
- Its management of the joint victim of sprain, osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, ligament injuries and any other constraint on the wrist;
- Its breath-ability, its scratch and possible adjustments and its easy maintenance.
We like less:
- The fact that it is essential to remove it during sleep.
2. Vive Wrist Brace
The most suitable for joint movements.
Its maintenance is safe and reliable thanks to its elastic fabric. In case of wrist tendonitis or ligament trauma, it relieves pain and reduces inflammation of the tendons.
It is a flexible protective accessory without metal support.
You therefore benefit from immobilization of your joint and flexibility of your wrist at the same time. It is in this sense that this orthosis is more suitable for great athletes.
In addition, its light fabric perfectly and discreetly supports your wrist. Its very flexible band and its tubular appearance further accentuate this holding capacity and avoid recurrent sprains.
I particularly appreciated the availability of this wrist splint in several sizes. You just need to know the circumference of the wrist and refer to the different dimensions offered on your online sales site.
For a wrist size between 11.5 and 13.5 cm, order the small size. I suggest you opt for the large size for a knack of 16 and 18 cm. There is also the medium size that fits the wrist from 13.5 to 16 cm and the XL size for a wrist from 18 to 20 cm.
WE love :
- Its very efficient maintenance principle;
- Its ability to offer great freedom of movement;
- Its practical and comfortable elastic band;
- Its management of sprains, strains, ligament trauma and tendonitis for much less pain;
- The different sizes available;
- Its great flexibility.
We like less:
- Less joint stability compared to other models.
3. Doctor Developed Carpal Tunnel Wrist Support
The fastest for recovery
If you often have numbness or tingling in your fingers, and you feel your hand getting weaker day by day, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. If your doctor confirms, you can relieve the pain with this orthosis.
I have already tried this model also on a person who suffers from an acute inflammation at the level of the wrist joint, and it manifests its beneficial effect from the first day. This wrist splint is also interesting in case of sprains.
It has a metal support positioned under the wrist. It is in this sense that it offers a great capacity of maintenance.
This orthosis acts on pain day and night. And even while you sleep, it keeps your wrist from moving.
The advanced wrist splint is more than a protective accessory, it is a class 1 medical device.
This quality orthosis is registered with the Health Products and Medicines Regulatory Agency.
Its design involved the expertise and advice of several medical professionals.
If you want to take care of your wrist using this protective accessory, measure the circumference of your wrist and indicate your size when ordering. For a wrist measurement between 13 and 15 cm, take a small splint.
Order a medium size for a wrist from 15 to 17 cm and a large size for a wrist from 17 to 19 cm. As for the XL size, it is reserved for wrists measuring 19 to 21 cm.
WE love :
- Its immediate benefit on wrist pain;
- Its action to soothe the manifestations of carpal tunnel syndrome, sprains and arthritis;
- Its metal splint for better immobilization of the joint;
- Its efficiency day and night;
- The different sizes available.
We like less:
- Orthosis limiting movement of the wrist and fingers.
4. Disuppo Medical Wrist Split
The smartly designed splint.
But it also guarantees rapid recovery after tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and rheumatism. It relieves pain in the joint, ligaments and tendon.
You can also use it as a preventive measure. If you practice risky sports, this Disuppo splint protects you from possible secondary wrist injuries.
I really like the thoughtful design of this accessory, which even gives it professional use. Its inner side is made of both good quality SBR material and an elastic fabric lining.
It does not stop the natural flow of perspiration from your covered hand, but it absorbs sweat and wicks it away. This breathable property guarantees great comfort in use and limits the risk of skin irritation.
On its inside, a removable aluminum plate makes it ergonomic. This element easily adapts to the curve of your palm, and keeps it securely in place.
It is also possible to properly adjust its elasticity by tightening its Velcro strips according to your convenience.
WE love :
- Its management of pain related to fractures, sprains, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and rheumatism;
- Its professional-quality meets the expectations of top athletes;
- Its well thought out design;
- Its breathable property;
- Its ergonomic character.
We like less:
- Its indiscreet design;
- Its use limited to the left hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to properly treat wrist pain with a splint?
If you have a wrist dislocation after a possible shock, take anti-inflammatory medication, but also put on your wrist splint.
If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, you can regain the strength and vitality of your hand by warming up your joint using this type of orthosis.
For all pain and inflammation in the wrist including sprain, arthritis, arthritis … wearing a good splint would always be beneficial to immobilize your wrist for 2 to 3 weeks.
Each night before sleeping, you must first immerse your wrist in warm water for about a quarter of an hour.
You then put on your orthosis that you will wear all night. The goal is to prevent your hand from making an involuntary movement that would impact the fragile joint while you sleep.
How to put on the wrist splint correctly?
I suggest you start by observing carefully whether it is designed for the left hand or for the right hand.
Mobilize your wrist and fingers a little before putting on the orthosis. Then position it by holding the thumb at the bottom and avoiding orienting it upwards.
For a model that is difficult to put on, I suggest that you get help to get the correct positioning.
Place the wrist in the splint while holding it firmly. Then roll up the accessory, and close the fixing bands according to the level of compression sought.
The more classic models can be easily put on like gloves. Rather, they are considered as protective devices reserved for athletes.
What warnings should be observed with a wrist splint?
Wash your wrist orthosis by hand and with a mild detergent to ensure its durability and to make it reusable.
Do not apply hygiene or beauty products to the skin that would be in contact with the orthosis. I even suggest that you try it on for an hour or so before committing to wearing it permanently. The goal is to see if your skin does not irritate on contact with the material that composes it.
If you ordered a fixed-size wrist splint that you find too tight the first time you use it, quickly swap your accessory with a model that fits your wrist. Always take into account the good blood circulation of the hand.
Conclusion
A good wrist orthosis is supposed to hold your joint perfectly without tightening it too much. If you use it to relieve pain, it should provide better immobilization of the wrist and thumb.
On the other hand, if you use it to protect your wrist against shocks during your intense physical activities, it must allow freedom of movement.
For me, the wrist splint with Bonmédico thumb orthosis remains the most convincing because of its practicality, its comfort of use and its action on all varieties of wrist pain.
In addition, it offers several adjustment possibilities which differentiates it from most current models.
