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How do I Choose the Best Wrist Support Brace?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

In order to choose the best wrist support brace, you should consider what you will be using it for. If you have a condition like carpal tunnel syndrome and need an option which will offer support while typing or doing other monotonous activities, you should choose a design that is created specifically for that purpose. Braces used for certain sports or to treat specific injuries should be chosen with that in mind, since specific options are often created for any ailment.

If you are unsure which type of wrist support brace you need, see your doctor before making a purchase. You will need to receive an accurate diagnosis if you are experiencing wrist pain or tenderness, especially if it worsens when performing certain activities. In the meantime, you can use a flexible bandage to provide support; these are generally inexpensive and easy to use.

Wrist braces may be worn to prevent pain in the wrist.
Wrist braces may be worn to prevent pain in the wrist.

Specific disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, may require a particular type of wrist support brace. They are designed to apply pressure to certain areas of the wrist to keep them in the proper position to avoid further damage. These may be prescribed or placed by your doctor, or you can purchase some varieties over the counter online or at your local pharmacy. The type you need may depend on the severity of your condition.

Specific disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, may require a particular type of wrist support brace.
Specific disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, may require a particular type of wrist support brace.

If you require a wrist support brace for playing a particular sport or engage in an activity, you should check with an organization involving that activity to see if they have any recommendations. Some sports may require support in one area, while another may require a different brace entirely. When in doubt, a health care professional or athletic instructor can probably give you advice on which type of brace to choose.

People who spend long periods of time typing on a computer should invest in a wrist support brace.
People who spend long periods of time typing on a computer should invest in a wrist support brace.

Injuries should always be treated by a doctor if they are accompanied by severe pain, swelling, and discoloration. A serious sprain, fracture, or other condition may require a specific brace for proper healing. For minor injuries, you can choose a wrist support brace at your local pharmacy that is designed for the area of your wrist that is hurting.

Tensor bandages -- commonly called Ace bandages -- have elastic and are typically used to treat light strains and sprains of the wrist and elsewhere on the body.
Tensor bandages -- commonly called Ace bandages -- have elastic and are typically used to treat light strains and sprains of the wrist and elsewhere on the body.

You should also consider price when choosing a brace. Many braces obtained in a hospital or doctor's office will be partially covered by insurance. Over the counter braces are normally not expensive, although this can vary based on the type, brand, and store.

Discussion Comments

Talentryto

@heavanet- I play a lot of sports, and I have found that an inexpensive wrist brace that I bought from my local pharmacy has worked just fine for me. I don't think that you have to spend a lot of money or spend a lot of time shopping for a wrist brace to get the type of support you need.

Take a look at the different types of wrist brace supports that are available at your local variety store or pharmacy. If you just want a little support to help you through times when you have wrist pain, a basic wrist brace should work fine for you. Another option is the try to wrap your wrist using a stretchy, fabric bandage. This type of support is inexpensive and can be used over and over again. It is also easy to wash, dry, and reuse without it losing its shape or support.

Heavanet

Does anyone have some tips for choosing a wrist brace for basic support? I don't know if I have carpal tunnel syndrome, but I have wrist pain from time to time. It is aggravated by a variety of activities, no just writing or typing.

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    • Wrist braces may be worn to prevent pain in the wrist.
      By: ganko
      Wrist braces may be worn to prevent pain in the wrist.
    • Specific disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, may require a particular type of wrist support brace.
      By: maticsandra
      Specific disorders, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, may require a particular type of wrist support brace.
    • People who spend long periods of time typing on a computer should invest in a wrist support brace.
      By: stokkete
      People who spend long periods of time typing on a computer should invest in a wrist support brace.
    • Tensor bandages -- commonly called Ace bandages -- have elastic and are typically used to treat light strains and sprains of the wrist and elsewhere on the body.
      By: maska82
      Tensor bandages -- commonly called Ace bandages -- have elastic and are typically used to treat light strains and sprains of the wrist and elsewhere on the body.
    • Trauma to the wrist may make it difficult to locate the radial pulse.
      By: joshya
      Trauma to the wrist may make it difficult to locate the radial pulse.
    • A serious sprain, fracture or other condition may require a specific brace for proper healing.
      By: waxart
      A serious sprain, fracture or other condition may require a specific brace for proper healing.
    • It's important for anyone with wrist pain to receive a proper diagnosis.
      By: Von Schonertagen
      It's important for anyone with wrist pain to receive a proper diagnosis.
    • Hypothyroidism can be an underlying cause of carpal tunnel, which may require the use of a wrist support brace.
      By: stockshoppe
      Hypothyroidism can be an underlying cause of carpal tunnel, which may require the use of a wrist support brace.
    • Repetitive movements like typing may cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
      By: nyul
      Repetitive movements like typing may cause carpal tunnel syndrome.