How Wrist Braces Work To Ease Carpal Tunnel Symptoms

Millions of people around the world suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition can make everyday activities, such as typing on a computer or writing very difficult. While there is no one cure for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, there are a few things that can help ease the symptoms. One of these things is using wrist braces. Wrist braces can be very helpful in relieving pain and discomfort for people with carpal tunnel syndrome. In this post, we will discuss how wrist braces work and why they are beneficial for people with carpal tunnel syndrome. Read on to learn more!

What is carpal tunnel syndrome and how do wrist braces help?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the wrist and hand. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of the hand that houses wrist muscle tendons and the median nerve. This nerve controls sensation and movement in the thumb and first three fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed or irritated. This can happen due to swelling or enlargement of the tendons in the passageway. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist. In severe cases, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to loss of feeling in the hand or paralysis of the muscles in the thumb.

Wrist braces are often used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. With carpal tunnel syndrome, the tunnel becomes smaller when we flex our wrists (move our hand towards the front of forearm). This typically occurs during sleep and when we are typing. By holding the wrist in a neutral position, a wrist brace can help to take pressure off of the median nerve and reduce symptoms.

What is Carpal Tunnel courtesy of Innova Physio & Sports Rehab. (Read the caption)

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The different types of wrist braces and how to choose the right one for you

When it comes to wrist braces , there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. The type of brace you need will depend on the specific condition you are trying to treat. For example, those with carpal tunnel syndrome may benefit from a wrist splint that keeps the hand and wrist in a neutral position. Those with arthritis may benefit from a brace that provides support and stability to the joint. And those with tendonitis may benefit from a brace that applies compression to the area. Ultimately, the best way to determine which type of wrist brace is right for you is to consult with a doctor or physical therapist. They will be able to assess your condition and make recommendations based on your specific needs.

How to properly wear a wrist brace and when to take it off

Wearing a wrist brace is often recommended as a way to support and protect the wrist while recovering from an injury or during periods of excessive stress on the joint. There are a few things to keep in mind when wearing a wrist brace:

-Make sure that the brace is snug but not too tight. It should be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time without causing pain or cutting off circulation.

-Be aware of how the brace is affecting your range of motion. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the level of support provided by the brace in order to maintain a full range of motion in the wrist.

-You should take breaks from wearing the brace throughout the day. This will help prevent stiffness and reduce your dependency on the brace.

-If you experience any pain or discomfort while wearing the brace, discontinue use and consult with your doctor.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome courtesy of Physiotherapy at Woodbridge. (Read the caption)

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The benefits of wearing a wrist brace regularly

If you suffer from conditions such as carpal tunnel or arthritis, wearing a wrist brace can also help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. They can also provide stability to the joint throughout the day.

Now you may be asking…

How long you should wear a wrist brace for carpal tunnel syndrome relief

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and wrist. The carpal tunnel is a small space in the wrist where tendons and ligaments pass through. The syndrome occurs when these tendons become swollen or irritated, putting pressure on the nerve. Wearing a wrist brace can help to relieve some of this pressure and provide relief from symptoms. However, it is important to wear the brace for the right amount of time. If worn for too long, the brace can actually cause additional stiffness and joint pain. For most people, wearing the brace during activities that cause symptoms, such as sleeping or typing, is sufficient. The goal is to provide support and stable alignment without preventing movement altogether. With proper use, a wrist brace can be an effective tool for managing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Fact about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome courtesy of Cornerstone Physical Therapy. (Read the caption)

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Tips for preventing carpal tunnel in the first place

Some tips for preventing carpal tunnel include maintaining good posture habits, taking frequent breaks from repetitive activities, using ergonomic devices, strengthening the wrists and hands, and listening to your body for signs of discomfort. By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Now, a wrist brace doesn’t fix the root cause of your pain. If you’d like to find the root cause of your carpal tunnel so you’re not dependent on wearing a wrist brace, Physiotherapy can help.

Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Physiotherapists can help to relieve symptoms by providing exercises and stretches that improve flexibility and reduce pressure on the median nerve. In some cases, physiotherapists may also provide manual therapy techniques to release tight muscles and reduce inflammation. If you are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, physiotherapy can help to relieve your symptoms and improve your hand function.

To find a top physiotherapy clinic near you just click the “find a clinic” button on this page.

Treatment options for carpal tunnel courtesy of Active Recovery Physiotherapy & Hand Clinic. (Read the caption)

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Book Your BACK NECK SHOULDER KNEE ELBOW HIP WRIST FOOT Pain Consult

This appointment is your opportunity to tell us what hurts and discover whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care is a good fit for you! During this session, you will talk with a physiotherapist or chiropractor on a phone call (or online) and create the right care plan specifically for your pain. There is no obligation on this session is to find out whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help you getting back to doing the things you love in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I sleep with a wrist brace on for carpal tunnel?

As carpal tunnel syndrome commonly causes night time symptoms, wearing a brace can help you sleep better with less intense symptoms.

Can wearing a wrist brace make carpal tunnel worse?

If worn for too long or in the wrong way, a wrist brace can actually cause additional stiffness and joint pain. It is important to follow instructions on the proper use of a wrist brace and discuss with your healthcare provider about the best treatment plan for your individual needs. Wearing a wrist brace should not make carpal tunnel worse if used properly.

What causes carpal tunnel to flare up?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by a number of factors including repetitive movements, wrist injury or fracture, arthritis, thyroid disease, and pregnancy. Flares of symptoms can also occur due to increased activity or repetitive movements that aggravate the condition. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider about ways to manage and prevent flares.

About Taylor Sipos

Taylor is a physiotherapist at The Orthopaedic Therapy Clinic located in Toronto, Ontario. He treats patients with various musculoskeletal conditions using patient education, exercise therapy, manual therapy and acupuncture. His treatment philosophy involves giving his patient’s the means to self-manage their injuries. He does this through reassurance, education and health promotion. Taylor uses the same principles as a patient educator at Pain Hero. He aims to provide you with high-quality, easy to understand information to teach you about your condition and how to improve it.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, treatment or a diagnosis, consult with a medical professional such as one suggested on this website. The Clinic Accelerator Inc. and the author of this page are not liable for the associated risks of using or acting upon the information contained in this article.

How Wrist Braces Work To Ease Carpal Tunnel Symptoms