Wrist Brace for a Wrist Injury

A wrist brace holds the wrist angled a little backward, with a stiff stay on the top or palm side, so a hurt or strained wrist can rest in a safe position. It can also ease hand numbness and tingling at night.

This item is supplied only on a physician’s order, and it is fitted on you in the clinic.

What is a wrist brace?

A fitted brace with a stiff insert on the back or the palm side of the wrist, sized to you.

How does it help you heal?

It lets the wrist rest after a fall onto an open hand or a strain at work, and it can ease numb, tingling hands at night.

How should it feel?

Firm but comfortable, with your fingers and thumb free to move.

How do you wear it, use it and keep it in shape?

While it is on, keep wiggling and bending each finger and the thumb. Once a day, remove it, wash, and look over your skin.

When should you call us?

Call us if:

• Cold, bluish, numb or puffy fingers
• It rubs a sore spot

How long do you use it?

It is usually worn overnight and for the tasks that bother the wrist, following your physician’s order.

We size the item on you and coach you until you can manage it on your own, from strapping it on to taking it off. Written instructions go home with you, and the signed receipt stays in your chart. Phone us about any pain, a bad fit or a broken piece.

Night numbness in the hand is often carpal tunnel syndrome. Thumb-side wrist pain is covered on our De Quervain’s tenosynovitis page.

Other equipment in the program

• Home TENS unit
• Exercise bands
• Back brace
• Hinged knee brace

This page belongs to the Gateway Midwest physician-directed physiotherapy program. On Natural Bridge Road, the physician who examined you signs each order, and no treatment runs without a physician on site.