The Best Wrist Braces To Help Treat Carpal Tunnel

If you suffer from discomfort, numbness, pain, or loss of strength in your wrist(s), then you may have a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome, says Cleveland Clinic. Carpal tunnel occurs when the median nerve of the wrist has more pressure on it than usual. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, there are many potential factors that contribute to carpal tunnel. Certain repetitive movements, like clicking your mouse or typing on a keyboard, can lead to carpal tunnel. Certain diseases that affect the bones or joints, like arthritis, can also contribute to carpal tunnel. Even a direct trauma to the wrist, like a sprain or broken bone, can play a role in the development of the condition. In some cases, carpal tunnel may even require surgery. Fortunately, there are plenty of non-surgical options for treatment.

For starters, you can take drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or receive a corticosteroid injection to relieve the swelling or inflammation (via Mayo Clinic). Another popular option is the wrist brace. WebMD says that wrist braces may work for people with mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, but you may not experience results for 3 to 4 weeks. Typically, people wear the brace while they sleep, but you can also wear one during the day. Choosing the right wrist brace, though, isn't easy. Here's everything you need to know about 5 of the best wrist braces to help treat carpal tunnel.

If wrist exercises aren't cutting it for your carpal tunnel, this wrist brace might do it. Since it came onto Amazon in 2017, this wrist brace has been rated 4.5 out of five stars based on nearly 45,000 customer reviews. Notably, nearly 3 out of 4 users rated this product 5 out of 5 stars. No wonder it is a bestseller. This wrist brace can be used on either the right or left hand and is adjustable to the size of your wrist. 

The plush cushion support provides a comfortable level of wrist support, while the breathable fabric enables airflow. The removable metal palmar splint also makes the brace easier to wash. If you are concerned about the longevity of the product, there's also a lifetime replacement guarantee to put your mind at ease. The brace is priced at $17.97.

Some wrist braces can feel a bit clunky or in the way. If you want a sleek design, then the Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves may offer a solution. These open-fingered gloves not only enable mobility, but are lined with copper for support. Plus the fabric provides compression. There are two gloves, so you can wear one on each hand. The gloves are also textured on the palms, so that whatever you grip does not slip. 

Since it came onto Amazon in 2015, this wrist brace has been rated 4.2 out of five stars based on over 50,000 customer reviews. The gloves are also washer-friendly and come with a product happiness guarantee so that you can get an easy refund in the event that you do need one. These gloves are priced at $23.76.

If you want to get a wrist brace from a trusted and longstanding sports medicine brand, look no further than Mueller, which has been in business over 60 years. This lightweight and breathable wrist brace comes with adjustable straps with a hook and loop fastener that enables a good fit. There's also top and bottom support. The bottom of the wrist receives a padded, contoured plastic support piece, while the top has a more rigid plastic support piece. You may want to keep in mind, though, that the wrist brace is made from a product similar to neoprene and may cause allergic reactions. 

You can order this single brace for either the right or left hand in a variety of sizes. Notably, the left-handed version costs slightly more. Since it came onto Amazon in 2009, this wrist brace has been rated 4.6 out of five stars based on over 36,000 customer reviews. It's priced at $13.49.

If you want a wrist brace that's simple but effective, then the Copper Wrist Brace by Dr. Arthritis could be the right one for you. This glove is designed by medical doctors who work on people with wrist conditions. The glove is designed to maximize use of your wrist and mobility, so it is ideal for daytime use. The strap system enables a one-size-fits-most, plus you can wear the glove on either the right or left hand. 

The glove is made up of neoprene and nylon, so it is not recommended for those with neoprene or nylon allergies. The brace is priced at $12.71. Since it came onto Amazon in 2018, this wrist brace has been rated 4.3 out of five stars based on over 33,000 customer reviews. 

Since it came onto Amazon in 2015, this wrist brace has been rated 4.2 out of five stars based on nearly 4,000 customer reviews. If you want a functional wrist brace that is also fashion friendly, check out the Vive Wrist Brace. This flexible wrist brace has two adjustable straps (one below the base of the wrist and one near the knuckles) also comes in three colors — black, beige, and gray. You can get the one-size-fits-most glove for either the left hand or the right. Additionally, you can remove the splint to adjust and customize the wrist support. However, while the neoprene may keep the brace breathable, it can also lead to an allergic reaction. The Vive Wrist Brace is priced at $13.99.