CTS Sufferers Guide: Does a Wrist Brace Help Carpal Tunnel?

Do your hands hurt? Maybe they feel numb? Did you notice a weakness in your grip? These could be carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s estimated that up to 5% of people have it.^[1] Your everyday life may be affected by the symptoms. You can, however, control the pain and other issues if you receive the proper care and assistance. Usually, you will be told to wear a wrist brace. However, does a wrist brace help with carpal tunnel syndrome? That's what we’ll look at in this post.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition affecting the hand. It happens when your median nerve is compressed. Specifically, where it goes through your carpal tunnel, both the carpal bones and the transverse carpal ligament are located inside this opening in your wrist.  If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, then you may experience:

• Numbness
• Burning sensations
• Pain
• Shock sensations
• Tingling
• Weakness
• Clumsiness

We rely on our wrists and hands to get a good grip on things. That’s why you may notice you drop things more often. This happens as the condition progresses.

Does a Wrist Brace Help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

If you suffer from this illness, it's crucial to support your wrist. For this reason, wearing a brace might be wise. We must consider its effects to determine whether it will be helpful. 

1. What Is a Wrist Brace

A wrist brace is a form of support that helps maintain a specific position for your hand and wrist. They come in many different designs, forms, and sizes. Some have metal support used as reinforcements. They're excellent for aiding in the healing process. 

2. How Wrist Braces Work to Help CTS

The median nerve will experience less pressure if a wrist brace is worn. That is the nerve that is compressed, leading to  CTS symptoms. You won't feel as much pain when the brace releases pressure. You may experience improvements in issues such as tingling, shocks, and burning sensations. 

Considerations About Using Wrist Braces for CTS

We’ve answered the question: “Does a wrist brace help carpal tunnel?” You want to use a brace for your wrist. But you’re not sure which one. Here are three things you shouldn’t overlook.

1. Material of the Brace

Are wrist braces good for carpal tunnel syndrome? Well, it really comes down to the design. This includes the materials that it uses. A high-quality woven fabric can offer superior support. Apart from quality, look for breathable materials. They allow air to flow freely while wearing your brace.

2. Duration of Use

How long do you need to wear the brace? According to a study, wearing a wrist splint for six weeks helped patients with mild to moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome experience improvement.^[2] However, the exact usage time should be based on your situation.

3. Doctor’s Advice

Talk to your doctor. Ask them for recommendations or show them the different braces you’re considering. Your doctor understands your condition and the severity of CTS. This means they can give you great advice.

How to Wear a Wrist Brace for Carpal Tunnel

It’s essential to know how to wear a wrist brace for carpal tunnel syndrome. There are four steps to follow.

1. Positioning the Hand

First, position your hand and wrist. Ensure you examine the structure of the brace. This will guide you on the right positioning. Keep your hand and wrist straight.

2. Inserting the Hand

Gently push your hand through the opening of the brace. If the brace uses straps that close it, then lay your hand down on the inside. Bring the straps over to close the brace.

3. Adjusting the Straps

Make some adjustments to help you find a good fit. Some braces have multiple straps. You have to adjust each according to your body.

4. Checking Comfort

Finally, make sure you feel comfortable. The brace shouldn’t feel too tight.

Other Methods to Alleviate CTS

Does a wrist brace help alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome? The answer is yes. There are other ways to relieve your symptoms as well. Apart from using your brace, there are other things you can do as well. These are extra strategies that help you manage your symptoms:

1. Regular Wrist Exercises

There are helpful wrist exercises that you can perform to improve your wrist mobility. They make sure your wrist is constantly moving. The appropriate workouts will also help to strengthen your wrists. Your grip will benefit from some exercises that focus on your wrists.

2. Cold therapy

Place an ice pack on the area where you have pain. Your wrist should be covered with it for twenty minutes if it is swollen and hurting. You can do this icing routine once or twice daily or even up to three times a day. If you choose three times, it's best to do it in the early morning, afternoon, and late evening before bedtime.^[3]

3. Medication

Use an over-the-counter drug, like ibuprofen or aspirin. Though they can’t cure your CTS, at least they help relieve your pain. Naproxen sodium can also help. ^[4]

4. Surgical options

In certain instances, your physician could advise surgery. During surgery, the carpal tunnel ligament is often lightly incised. Your median nerve will no longer be under pressure as a result. The surgeon may occasionally make several incisions. The severity of the ailment determines this. Surgery comes in two primary forms. Among them are endoscopic and open carpal tunnel releases. After endoscopic carpal tunnel release, it's suggested to wear a splint for one to two weeks. If the surgery was done through an open release, the splint should be worn for one to three weeks.^[5]

Best Wrist Braces for Carpal Tunnel

There are numerous companies that produce braces. Therefore, selecting the most suitable wrist brace for carpal tunnel syndrome can be challenging. Fivali is unquestionably a company you shouldn't ignore when it comes to highly regarded brands. The company has numerous braces available. Let’s take a look at two that are very promising for people with carpal tunnel syndrome.

1. Fivali Wrist Support Brace for Finger Protection with Stability - 1 Pack

Your fingers and wrists are stabilized with the help of this brace. This is the best option if you have wrist injuries. Additionally, the brace is a fantastic fit for those who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. While wearing it, moisture-wicking fabrics keep your hands dry. Additionally, the materials are lightweight. It means that the brace is quite comfortable. Your wrist or hand won't feel like they are carrying more weight because of the brace. The brace has an aluminum splint integrated into it. It is more than just a brace that relieves discomfort. It also encourages a quicker recovery, as you will discover.

2. Fivali Carpal Tunnel Brace 1 Pack FWH01

The Fivali FWH01 was explicitly designed for individuals who struggle with carpal tunnel syndrome. It provides excellent coverage for your wrist. There are three aluminum splints in the brace. This helps to add a more significant level of support. The straps on this brace are adjustable. With adjustments, you can find the perfect fit for your wrist. Breathable materials allow sufficient airflow. This means no need to worry about sweating underneath the brace.

Carpal tunnel can be painful. It’s also a condition that can interfere with life. Does a wrist brace help alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome? Wearing a high-quality brace can help. However, you must select a brace from a reputable brand, such as Fivali. We make a wide variety of braces that target different parts of your body, including your hands and wrists. We use advanced designs to offer superior support. We also focus on top-quality materials that are breathable, lightweight, and easy to maintain.

References

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Available at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448179/
2. Splinting in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The Optimal Duration. Available at https://academic.oup.com/milmed/article/185/11-12/e2049/5895448
3. ICE OR HEAT FOR CARPAL TUNNEL?? Available at https://www.mycarpaltunnel.com/carpal-tunnel-faq/ice-or-heat-for-pain/
4. Carpal tunnel syndrome. Available at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355608
5. Splinting after Carpal Tunnel Release: Does it Really Matter? Available at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5333668/