Stop Wrist Pain With the Best Wrist Supports for Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, and More (2024)

Stop Wrist Pain With the Best Wrist Supports for Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, and More (1)

Wrist braces are used to provide temporary protection, support, or prevention of various upper extremity injuries, says Jodie Auliff, OTR/L, CHT, a lead hand therapist and occupational therapist at Athletico. Each type of support or brace has a specific role. Some braces are designed to protect an injured bone, tendon, or ligament as they heal when movement is not allowed, while others are used to support and rest the injured area and alleviate pain, Auliff says. Wrist supports, or braces can also promote faster healing for fractures or tendon injuries, decrease pain caused by sprains or strains, and prevent injuries from physical activities such as weightlifting and conditions like carpal tunnel.

Based on interviews with experts—including occupational therapists and orthopedic surgeons—we put together a list of the 11 best wrist supports for various needs, including conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel, and activities like frequent typing or texting. We assessed these supports based on effectiveness, fit, type of brace, and value. A physical therapist from our Medical Expert Board also reviewed this article for accuracy, including instructions on using wrist supports and evaluating fit, comfort, and materials.

When to Consult a Doctor

Remember that it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before wearing a wrist brace for an extended period. Not only is it important to get a proper diagnosis, but there are some medical conditions that will not benefit from using a wrist brace. Likewise, there may be instances where a custom brace is needed. A hand therapist will develop the brace and mold it to your hand and wrist in these situations.

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In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • How We Selected

  • What to Look For

  • Our Experts

  • FAQs

  • Why Trust Verywell Health

Pros

  • Lightweight, flexible material

  • Moisture wicking and antimicrobial

  • Versatile and suitable for a variety of conditions

Why We Recommend It

If you are looking for a wrist brace that is versatile and functional, you cannot go wrong with the Copper Compression Wrist Brace. Not only is this brace suitable for various conditions—such as ganglion cysts, sprains and strains, and carpal tunnel syndrome—but the fabric is also infused with copper that never washes away and keeps working to extend the product's life. This feature is particularly attractive given copper's role in skin health.

Plus, the ergonomic design of this wrist brace makes it suitable for both daytime and nighttime wear, depending on what your healthcare provider recommends. And you won’t feel confined or sweaty wearing this wrist support because of the unique breathable material. It is both lightweight and comfortable, as well as antimicrobial.

Keep in Mind

The only downside is that it’s not reversible. So, you must buy the brace based on the hand and wrist you will be wearing and cannot use it for the other wrist. But if your pain and discomfort are limited to one side, this should not be an issue.

Key Specs:
Material:
Nylon/Copper | Sizes: S/M and L/XL | Weight: 2.4 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Lightweight, breathable material

  • Reversible, can be used on either hand

  • Versatile and suitable for a variety of conditions

Cons

  • Stability may decline with repeated use

Why We Recommend It

If you are looking for an inexpensive wrist support or brace to help you recover from a repetitive motion injury or a mild sprain or strain, the Ace Wrist Support may be just what you need. Its over-the-thumb design provides compression while stabilizing your wrist joint, and the neoprene blend may also aid in increased circulation.

In fact, research indicates that neoprene can be effective in maintaining intramuscular temperature while exercising and increasing skin temperature during and after exercise. This can be particularly beneficial if you are trying to heal from an injury. What’s more, this wrist support is adjustable and reversible, making it great to have on hand when unexpected injuries crop up and you need extra support.

Keep in Mind

The stability may decrease with repeated use. But at this price point, you can stock up and have multiple backups available.

Key Specs:
Material:
Neoprene blend | Sizes: One size, adjustable | Weight: 1.45 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Unique, adjustable design

  • Wraparound strap to support thumb

  • Limited stitching to improve comfort

Cons

  • May provide more support than you need

Why We Recommend It

The Comfort Cool CMC Splint was designed with input from hand therapists and provides the support you need while allowing for full finger function. In fact, this wrist support has a unique design featuring a contoured wraparound strap that wraps around the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint and the first metacarpal for direct joint support.

According to the Arthritis Society, a brace that provides extra support for these joints is particularly important because it increases stability and improves function. This type of brace also reduces strain or stress on painful or damaged joints and can even help reduce pain when performing everyday tasks. The number of seams, stitching, and fabric are limited in this design, which further adds to the comfort and feel of this wrist support.

Keep in Mind

That said, it’s worth noting that this splint provides more support than some people might need. Whether you have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider about which type of brace is best for you.

Key Specs:
Material:
Neoprene | Sizes: S-XL | Weight: 1.45 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Built-in bead keeps wrist from moving

  • Removable metal splint

  • Great support without hindering circulation

Cons

  • Bulky design limits movement

Why We Recommend It

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common cause of wrist pain that can lead to weakness and a loss of sensation. It can also limit daily activities, impede work, and impact the quality of life. The most common non-surgical treatment for CTS is splinting your wrist at night with a rigid splint like the BraceOwl Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace. This brace offers the nighttime support you need to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with CTS. It has a removable metal splint for added stability and a built-in bead design that applies gentle pressure to the palm of your hand and helps keep your wrist in one position.

As an added bonus, this wrist brace has three adjustable Velcro straps that are easy to adjust for the perfect fit. Thanks to its dual-hand design, you can switch between the right and left wrists. The fabric is designed to help prevent sweat buildup.

Keep in Mind

The only downside is the bulky design, which makes it hard to perform day-to-day functions like using your mobile phone. But because most healthcare providers recommend only splinting your wrist at night when you have CTS, this may not be a huge problem.

Key Specs:
Material:
Nylon and Neoprene Blend | Sizes: One size, adjustable | Weight: 3.84 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Three adjustable straps for a secure fit

  • Lightweight breathable material

  • Allows for movement when needed

Cons

  • Stitching can be bothersome

Why We Recommend It

When you have an inflamed tendon or tendonitis, it can take some time to recover. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and a brace like the BraceUp Wrist Brace. The brace has three adjustable straps to give you the stability and security you need to allow your tendons to heal.In addition to the extra support from the straps, the lightweight aluminum splint and mesh material create a secure spot for your wrist that is both comfortable and breathable.

Keep in Mind

It should be noted, though, that the stitching in this brace can be bothersome for some. If you want a more seamless design, you may prefer the ComfyBrace Premium Lined Wrist Support, which we recommend below. However, tendonitis usually only needs short-term bracing, so you may decide the stitching is not a huge issue.

Key Specs:
Material:
Polyester | Sizes: S/M and L/XL | Weight: 4.16 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro and loops

Pros

  • Lightweight, breathable fabric

  • Great for daily use

  • 60-day unconditional guarantee

Cons

  • Only one size

Why We Recommend It

The Vive Wrist Brace is our top pick for seniors and other people who may need wrist support on a daily basis due to its breathability, ease of use, and lightweight fabric. This wrist brace has a lightweight removable splint that stabilizes your wrist in a neutral position. The neoprene fabric allows the brace to retain therapeutic heat and improve circulation without causing your wrist to overheat.

The two adjustable straps allow you to customize the amount of compression you want based on pain, inflammation, and swelling. This is a great brace for sprains, strains, and tendonitis. Vive offers a 60-day unconditional guarantee, so if you purchase it and it doesn’t fit, you can always return it.

Keep in Mind

The brace comes in only one size, so it may not fit some people.

Key Specs:
Material:
Neoprene | Sizes: One size | Weight: 2.89 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Built-in bead keeps wrist from moving

  • Removable metal splint

  • Promotes sleep

Cons

  • Only one size

Why We Recommend It

If you’re looking for no-fuss wrist support to alleviate wrist pain and provide good support without interrupting your sleep, consider the ComfyBrace Night Wrist Support. This one-size-fits-all brace features a breathable slip-on sleeve, a removable splint, and a beaded cushion that supports your wrist while sleeping.

The ergonomic design also allows you to use the brace on either hand, so unless you need to brace both wrists, you only need to purchase one. This brace is the perfect solution for relief from carpal tunnel syndrome, post-cast wrist pain, and other conditions that plague you at night while you try to sleep.

Keep in Mind

One downside to this brace is that it only comes in one size, which can create a problem with fit. Fortunately, the company offers a hassle-free lifetime replacement if you purchase the brace and realize it doesn’t work.

Key Specs:
Material:
Not listed | Sizes: One size | Weight: 3.84 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Offers a neutral healing position

  • Keeps you from making painful movements while recovering

  • Padded and breathable

Cons

  • May be too heavy for some

Why We Recommend It

If you need a wrist support or brace that allows your hand and wrist to rest and recover—such as from nerve damage, an accident, or post-surgery—your healthcare provider may recommend a resting splint. The Braceability Resting Hand Splint is designed to support your hand and wrist, promote healing, and reduce pain and swelling.

Unlike other immobilizers, this resting hand splint supports your hand, wrist, and fingers in a neutral healing position and keeps you from making any painful movements while you recover. What’s more, it's made of padded, breathable materials that offer comfortable, functional positioning regardless of what you are doing.

Keep in Mind

Keep in mind this wrist support is the heaviest on our list, weighing in at 5.29 ounces. While that may not seem like a lot, for someone with small hands or decreased muscle tone, it may be a challenge. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether or not this resting splint is best for your recovery.

Key Specs:
Material:
Nylon | Sizes: XS-XL | Weight: 5.29 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Minimalistic design

  • Lightweight breathable material

  • Allows for good mobility

Cons

  • Thumb opening may be too small for some

Why We Recommend It

The Wellgate PerfectFit Wrist Support offers a slender profile that is perfect for people with smaller bone structures. Designed to relieve pain from carpal tunnel, arthritis, and minor strains or sprains, this wrist brace is lightweight and breathable. The memory foam interior provides cushy comfort.

Also, due to the slimmer design, the Wellgate wrist support allows for more mobility and less restriction, which can be great for people who only need a little bit of support while gaming, using the computer, or writing. If you have a smaller bone structure and tend to find that wrist supports are usually too big, this may be the one for you.

Keep in Mind

The thumb hole can be a little restrictive or even too small for some people.

Key Specs:
Material:
Memory Foam | Sizes: One size | Weight: 2.4 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Minimalist design

  • Allows for good mobility

  • Breathable construction

Cons

  • May not provide enough support

Why We Recommend It

If you’re used to being active, nothing is more frustrating than when wrist pain keeps you sidelined. The ComfyBrace Premium Lined Wrist Brace is a low-profile wrist support that is so comfortable you may even forget you are wearing it.

With a breathable construction that does not retain moisture, this wrist brace will give you the support you seek without hindering your movements.

Keep in Mind

If you need a lot of support, this may not be the brace for you. The minimalist design is better suited for people with minor wrist pain who need extra support.

Key Specs:
Material:
Not listed | Sizes: One size| Weight: 1.26 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

Pros

  • Three straps for maximum adjustability

  • Minimizes twisting and flexing

  • Well padded for extra comfort

Cons

  • Can get a little warm at times

Why We Recommend It

Whether you have carpal tunnel or a wrist injury of some sort, finding being able to adjust your support is important—especially because some days require more support than others. We found the Futuro Deluxe Wrist Stabilizer the perfect answer to that dilemma.

This wrist support allows you to make adjustments as needed with three independent Velcro straps, giving you a more tailored fit. What’s more, you can make this support as tight as you need with confidence that it will not pinch you. The support does a great job minimizing any twisting or flexing of your wrist, while the memory foam interior ensures extra comfort and support.

Keep in Mind

With so many straps and extra padding, this wrist support can get a little warm. Even with that drawback, you can’t beat this wrist support's extra support and adjustability.

Key Specs:
Materials:
Polyester, nylon, neoprene | Sizes: S/M and L/XL | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro

How We Selected the Best Wrist Supports

When developing our list of recommended wrist supports, we consulted with various hand and wrist specialists to determine what to look for when selecting a product. We also asked about different types of bracing, how long wrist braces should be worn, and whether they are always appropriate for treating wrist pain. Then, we spent hours researching the different types of wrist braces on the market, evaluating everything from their weight and sizing to the type of support they offer. The end result was a comprehensive list of wrist braces designed to treat various types of wrist pain.

What to Look For in Wrist Supports

  • Material: Wrist braces and supports come in various fabrics, including neoprene, nylon, polyester, or a combination of these materials. While there is no single best material, you want to ensure the fabric is breathable. This is especially important if your hands are prone to swelling since lack of circulation could worsen your swelling. You also want something that can be cleaned effectively so that dirt and bacteria won’t adhere to your hands.
  • Fit: Andrea Halim, MD, MBA, an orthopedic surgeon and assistant professor of Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation and Hand Surgery at Yale Medicine, says finding a wrist support that fits well is crucial for healing and injury prevention. Wearing a brace that does not fit properly can cause unwanted pressure or irritate your skin. For a fracture or sprain, your brace should be snug but not so tight as to cut off circulation or cause skin irritation, Halim says.
  • Adjustability: When shopping for a wrist brace, look for features such as adjustable straps, breathable materials, and a comfortable fit, Christopher Sforzo, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and founder of Stewart Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, suggests. Because wrist braces can be worn when you are typing or working out, you also want to ensure they do not interfere with your range of motion or cause discomfort. They shouldn’t compress your nerves or restrict blood flow, he says.
  • Recommended uses: Selecting a wrist brace is best done in collaboration with a healthcare provider who can advise you on the type of brace best for your condition. Halim says that not every condition is best treated with brace wear.
  • Mobility: Pain that limits movement and basic day-to-day functioning impacts your quality of life. For this reason, many people turn to wrist supports or braces to alleviate pain. The key is finding a wrist support or brace that alleviates your pain and discomfort and allows you to do what you need. The brace you choose should be breathable, comfortable, and practical, allowing your fingers to move as needed while stabilizing your wrist.

Our Experts

Experts we interviewed to select the best wrist supports include:

  • Jodie Auliff, OTR/L, CHT, a lead hand therapist and occupational therapist at Athletico
  • Andrea Halim, MD, MBA, an orthopedic surgeon and assistant professor with Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation, Hand Surgery at Yale Medicine
  • Christopher Sforzo, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and founder of Sforzo, Dillingham, Stewart Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can you wear a wrist brace all day?

    Generally, if you’re wearing a brace to provide complete rest for a joint, you need to wear it all day, but if it's just for support, then you should take breaks and stretch to avoid stiffness, Auliff says. That being said, one of the major risks associated with wrist supports is wearing the brace for too long, says Auliff. While it varies based on the injury or condition, doing so may make you susceptible to muscle weakening and stiffening of the surrounding joints, muscles, and tendons. Talk to a healthcare provider about your specific situation to determine whether a wrist support or brace could help alleviate your pain.

  • How tight should the wrist support be?

    When selecting a wrist brace, you want to look for something with firm support that allows full range of motion without cutting off your circulation, Sforzo says. It also should be adjustable so you can loosen it when needed. The general rule of thumb is that you should be able to get one to two fingers under each strap, Auliff says.

  • Will a wrist brace alleviate pain?

    If you have a sprain, strain, or inflammation, wearing a brace will allow the wrist joint to rest, Halim says. In these situations, wearing a wrist support or brace helps prevent pain associated with moving an irritated or inflamed joint or stressing an injured ligament. Additionally, many people with carpal tunnel syndrome find that wearing a brace overnight alleviates the pain associated with the condition and keeps them from waking from pain or discomfort at night, she adds.

Why Trust Verywell Health

Sherri Gordon, CLC, has been covering health and social issues for nearly 20 years and has written countless articles with a health focus. Consequently, she is well versed and knowledgeable about a number of health conditions—like carpal tunnel and osteoarthritis—that impact our everyday lives. Plus, as someone who spends multiple hours per day on a computer, Sherri knows how important it is to find a comfortable and well-fitting brace to alleviate discomfort and pain that comes from repetitive motions.

Stop Wrist Pain With the Best Wrist Supports for Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, and More (2024)
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