Choosing a Wrist Support

Wrist Splints

• Wrist splints are designed to prevent movement in either one or both directions. Most commonly they will restrict movement into flexion, which is where the wrist is bent forwards, as if trying to touch the fingers on the front of the forearm. They do this by having either a metal or plastic splint, often inserted into a neoprene support.
  
• Suitable for - severe conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain injuries.
  
• Advantages - prevents movement to allow rest and recovery in more serious conditions.
  
• Disadvantages - can be uncomfortable to wear.
• Examples -McDavid 454; LP725

Neoprene Supports

• Neoprene supports come in several varieties, all offering different degrees of support to the wrist and sometimes the thumb also. Neoprene is a synthetic rubber which is used in supports and braces due to its properties of heat retention and comfort. They also help to compress the injury, so reducing swelling.
  
• Suitable for - most mild to moderate wrist and some thumb injuries (e.g. ligament sprains).
  
• Advantages - comfortable and easy to put on.
  
• Disadvantages - limited support unless there are additional straps or splints.
• Examples - LP776; LP703; LP763;

Wrap Around Supports

• Wrap around supports can be made of either neoprene or an elasticated silicone or bandage. They are useful for providing varying compression and heat-retention.
  
• Suitable for - mild wrist injuries and for extra support in strenuous wrist activities
  
• Advantages - application can be varied to meet the individuals needs, comfortable and re-useable (unlike tape).
  
• Disadvantages - limited support
• Examples - NeoG wrist and thumb support; McDavid 451; LP692 MaxWrap Silicon Elastic Wrap

LP525 wrist splint

LP776 wrist support

LP692 silicon wrap