- When Are Wrist Braces/Splints Considered for Carpal Tunnel?
Wrist braces/splints are often used early in the diagnosis. When these are used, healthcare providers have not yet seen a need to address carpal tunnel with surgery. Many people with mild or moderate symptoms get them on an intermittent basis. This type of situation makes wearing a brace helpful. When combined with rest, as appropriate, many patients will find a good amount of relief.
Everyone's carpal tunnel symptoms will vary; however, most patients find using braces helpful for symptom relief. Usually, the symptoms last for a shorter time. People who use braces might find they experience fewer symptoms upon awakening, too.
When carpal tunnel can be addressed through the use of braces and splints, light wrist exercise is recommended during times that you are not wearing a brace. Performing these exercises helps you to increase the range of motion for your wrist.
- How Is Carpal Tunnel Diagnosed?
Your doctor might suspect carpal tunnel if you have any of these symptoms. Then the physician will do an exam with other diagnostics:
- Hand weakness
- Losing your grip and dropping things
- Finger and thumb pain
- Tingling or numbness
- Burning sensation
- Worse symptoms after you've been asleep
Your doctor will inquire about your medical history, which will help rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. A physical exam can also help rule out other conditions contributing to nerve pressure. In addition to the hand and wrist, your doctor will also examine your shoulder and neck areas.
During the wrist and hand examination, your doctor will look for physical deformities, swelling, and tenderness. Your hand muscle strength and finger sensation will also be checked. The doctor will also check your nerve impulse speed.
- What Are the Benefits of Wrist Braces?
Wrist braces, when used with medications for pain relief, can provide help during the early stages of the condition. A brace will help act as a stabilizer for your hand and wrist, primarily if you work in a field that requires repetitive movements, such as typing or working with tools. However, providing support while you work is far from the only advantage offered.
Another advantage of braces is helping to keep the wrist in a neutral position while you sleep. One of the ways that braces help in this situation is by keeping the wrist from bending. When your wrist bends, unnecessary pressure is put on the median nerve, which leads to inflammation and pain.
Another type of advantage that patients can enjoy is being able to avoid overuse of the wrist or overstretching. Even inadvertent straining can cause further injury, making the recovery process take longer.
