Wearing baseball wrist braces is not a new treatment, but it’s becoming more common to see a patient who has previously tried everything else and still can’t get rid of the problems with his or her wrist. The wrist is such a complex joint that it’s difficult to target an exact cause. However, once the problem has been identified, there are a number of treatments that have shown success in treating and eliminating the problem. Here are three:
Placing a bracelet on the hand (and sometimes also on the wrist) helps to stabilize the wrist and limit movement. Wrist braces that go around the entire arm or go just over the wrist are available, but many patients report that just a small band that covers just the top of the wrist works best. There are several brands available, but the important thing to look for is one that fits comfortably, holds the wrist in the correct position without interfering with other wrist movements, and has a good return on the investment. Since wrist braces can be uncomfortable and can even make it painful to wear them, it’s important to find one that feels right.
Some doctors recommend using night splints to treat wrist problems, which are bands that slip around the wrist and hold it in place during the night. Night splints are often recommended for arthritis sufferers, as well as for those who can’t stand wearing wrist braces. These bands are comfortable to sleep in, and they don’t interfere with other activities, since they are held in place by Velcro or elastic. Night splints can take a while to work, so patients shouldn’t expect results immediately. If you are suffering from an injury, however, you may want to try this treatment to see if it helps.
If you’re thinking of a more long-term solution, you may be able to find wrist braces that are custom made. This means that the doctor will create a bracelet that suits your specific problem, and that the device will stay in place during your regular activities. Some people find this to be more comfortable, though others are leery of the idea. Before you make a decision, you should speak to a doctor to find out how a custom made baseball wrist brace would work for you.
You may also want to consider getting a removable brace instead of a splint. Removable baseball wrist braces are a good idea if you have a particular issue, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These devices are fitted right onto the hand and wrist, and can usually be removed without any pain or discomfort. In addition to being removable, they are durable and can last a very long time without needing to be replaced. They are also more comfortable to wear than splints, since these braces are not always attached to the hand or wrist.
If none of these options sound right for your situation, you may want to consider using standard baseball wrist braces that are designed to hold just one wrist. These bracelets are often used for children who need support from their hands and arms and can help prevent damage to the ligaments of the hand. Although these braces are less comfortable than custom made baseball wrist braces, many players continue to wear them, in order to protect their wrists. Since these braces are so common, they are likely to be available at any medical store.