What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) has become increasingly prevalent for workers who spend a majority of their work week on computers or in repetitive jobs, such as factory work or physical labour. It is a common condition that causes pain, weakness, numbness, tingling and reduced functionality in the hand and forearm. Symptoms are usually present in the palmar side of the hand and typically affect the thumb, index and middle fingers. 

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 

The carpal tunnel is a passageway between the hand and forearm, formed by the carpal bones of the wrist and the transverse carpal ligament. It contains tendons as well as sensory and motor nerves. The median nerve provides sensation and innovation to the palmar side of the thumb, 
index, middle and half of the ring finger. Over time, the median nerve can become compressed within the carpal tunnel, as a result of trauma, inflammation from conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis or repetitive use. During pregnancy, hormones can also cause fluid retention within the carpal tunnel.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve is pinched as a result of trauma, increased pressure or blood supply issues (Genova, 2020).  Increased pressure is the most frequent cause and commonly occurs due to excessive flexion and extension of the wrist (bending and extending). These movements increase the fluid pressure in the tunnel excessively and repetitive movements increase the risk for developing CTS. 

Can I Use a Wrist Brace for Carpal Tunnel?

Bracing prevents the movement of the wrist and alleviates CTS symptoms. Immobilising the wrist reduces fluid pressure in the tunnel and the strain on the median nerve (Michlovitz et al., 2015). This has shown improvements in pain and hand function (Figueiredo, Ariboni, Tucci & Carvalho, 2024). Night-time wear of a wrist brace also reduces pain and increases functional outcomes (Burt. et al., 2015).  Night splinting also prevents prolonged flexion (bending) of the wrist while you are asleep.

OPC Health wrist braces that immobilise the wrist & alleviate symptoms.

Tripod Wrist Lacer Complete immobilisation of the wrist which is achieved by 3 malleable aluminium stays. The dual lace closure system allows for easy one-handed application and the perforated suede allows moisture to evaporate away from the skin. View Online

SUPROhand A wrist brace suitable for partial immobilisation. Designed with adjustable dorsal and palmer stays. Each brace can be used on the right or the left hand depending on the orientation of the palmer stay. Simply remove and turn the stay before reinserting to change the side. View Online

OPTIVOhand The low-profile brace that stabilises and limits movement of the wrist. Easily convertible from left to right sided with the removable metal palmer stay. Compatible with the Pollex Pro for additional immobilisation of the thumb. View Online

BioSkin DP2 & DP3 A wrist immobilising brace made with a moisture-wicking microfleece liner. This brace keeps the hand and wrist dry to increase comfort. Contains removable dorsal and palmer stays that can be removed and remoulded for a custom fit. View Online

IMAK SmartGlove PM Carpal Tunnel Splint Prevents the hand from being held in a harmful position while sleeping. Features breathable cotton lining and cushioning foam to allow your skin to breathe. View Online

Futuro Night Wrist Support Helps relieve hand and wrist pain with cushioning beads at the palm to stabilise the hand in a neutral position. The moisture-wicking and soft material keeps the wrist comfortable overnight. View Online
Actimove Manus Forte Breathable wrist brace with an aluminum splint and two dorsal plastic stays, providing stabilizing support in a neutral position. View Online
Uno-Who Wrist Brace Supports the wrist and hand with a removable, malleable aluminum upright on the palmar side, allowing for a custom fit. View Online
Wrist Lacer Made with perforated suede and polypropylene felt, is ideal for stabilizing wrist sprains, strains, carpal tunnel syndrome, and post-cast support. View Online
Post Op Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Releases
OPC GelFlex Wrist Contoured polymer gel pad and medical-grade mineral oil, is ideal for post-op scar management, and protection from friction and pressure, or return-to-work activities. View Online
IMAK Computer Glove Massaging ergoBeads cushion and protect the wrist from hard surfaces, maintaining ergonomic position for activities like using a mouse, typing, gaming, office work, crafting, or studying. View Online

References

Burt, S., Dedlow, K., Francis, A., Gonczy, C., Johnson, S., Kadlec, A., ... & Porter, C. (2018). The effectiveness of nighttime wrist splinting for treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 48(7), 558-566.

 Figueiredo DS, Ariboni RR, Tucci HT, Carvalho RP. Effects of wrist orthoses in reducing pain in individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome: a systematic review. Disabil Rehabil. 2024 Jan 12:1-9. doi: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2301019. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38217327.

Genova, A., Dix, O., Saefan, A., Thakur, M., & Hassan, A. (2020). Carpal tunnel syndrome: a review of literature. Cureus, 12(3).

Michlovitz, S. L., Harris-Love, M. O., & Whilte, L. (2015). Orthotic intervention for carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Hand Therapy, 28(1), 31-38.