Wrist braces are used to provide temporary protection, support, or prevention of various upper extremity injuries, says Jodie Auliff, OTR/L, CHT, a lead hand therapist and occupational therapist at Athletico. Each type of support or brace has a specific role. Some braces are designed to protect an injured bone, tendon, or ligament as they heal when movement is not allowed, while others are used to support and rest the injured area and alleviate pain, Auliff says. Wrist supports, or braces can also promote faster healing for fractures or tendon injuries, decrease pain caused by sprains or strains, and prevent injuries from physical activities such as weightlifting and conditions like carpal tunnel. Based on interviews with experts—including occupational therapists and orthopedic surgeons—we put together a list of the 11 best wrist supports for various needs, including conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel, and activities like frequent typing or texting. We assessed these supports based on effectiveness, fit, type of brace, and value. A physical therapist from our Medical Expert Board also reviewed this article for accuracy, including instructions on using wrist supports and evaluating fit, comfort, and materials. Remember that it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before wearing a wrist brace for an extended period. Not only is it important to get a proper diagnosis, but there are some medical conditions that will not benefit from using a wrist brace. Likewise, there may be instances where a custom brace is needed. A hand therapist will develop the brace and mold it to your hand and wrist in these situations. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Best Budget: Best for Arthritis: Best for Carpal Tunnel Relief: Best for Tendonitis: Best for Seniors: Best for Sleeping: Best for Rest and Recovery: Best for Smaller Wrists: Best for Activity: In This Article Our Picks How We Selected What to Look For Our Experts FAQs Why Trust Verywell Health Pros Lightweight, flexible material Moisture wicking and antimicrobial Versatile and suitable for a variety of conditions Cons Not reversible (must buy for right or left hand) If you are looking for a wrist brace that is versatile and functional, you cannot go wrong with the Copper Compression Wrist Brace. Not only is this brace suitable for various conditions—such as ganglion cysts, sprains and strains, and carpal tunnel syndrome—but the fabric is also infused with copper that never washes away and keeps working to extend the product's life. This feature is particularly attractive given copper's role in skin health. Plus, the ergonomic design of this wrist brace makes it suitable for both daytime and nighttime wear, depending on what your healthcare provider recommends. And you won’t feel confined or sweaty wearing this wrist support because of the unique breathable material. It is both lightweight and comfortable, as well as antimicrobial. The only downside is that it’s not reversible. So, you must buy the brace based on the hand and wrist you will be wearing and cannot use it for the other wrist. But if your pain and discomfort are limited to one side, this should not be an issue. Key Specs: Pros Lightweight, breathable material Reversible, can be used on either hand Versatile and suitable for a variety of conditions Cons Stability may decline with repeated use If you are looking for an inexpensive wrist support or brace to help you recover from a repetitive motion injury or a mild sprain or strain, the Ace Wrist Support may be just what you need. Its over-the-thumb design provides compression while stabilizing your wrist joint, and the neoprene blend may also aid in increased circulation. In fact, research indicates that neoprene can be effective in maintaining intramuscular temperature while exercising and increasing skin temperature during and after exercise. This can be particularly beneficial if you are trying to heal from an injury. What’s more, this wrist support is adjustable and reversible, making it great to have on hand when unexpected injuries crop up and you need extra support. The stability may decrease with repeated use. But at this price point, you can stock up and have multiple backups available. Key Specs: Pros Unique, adjustable design Wraparound strap to support thumb Limited stitching to improve comfort Cons May provide more support than you need The Comfort Cool CMC Splint was designed with input from hand therapists and provides the support you need while allowing for full finger function. In fact, this wrist support has a unique design featuring a contoured wraparound strap that wraps around the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint and the first metacarpal for direct joint support. According to the Arthritis Society, a brace that provides extra support for these joints is particularly important because it increases stability and improves function. This type of brace also reduces strain or stress on painful or damaged joints and can even help reduce pain when performing everyday tasks. The number of seams, stitching, and fabric are limited in this design, which further adds to the comfort and feel of this wrist support. That said, it’s worth noting that this splint provides more support than some people might need. Whether you have osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider about which type of brace is best for you. Key Specs: Pros Built-in bead keeps wrist from moving Removable metal splint Great support without hindering circulation Cons Bulky design limits movement Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common cause of wrist pain that can lead to weakness and a loss of sensation. It can also limit daily activities, impede work, and impact the quality of life. The most common non-surgical treatment for CTS is splinting your wrist at night with a rigid splint like the BraceOwl Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace. This brace offers the nighttime support you need to relieve the pain and discomfort associated with CTS. It has a removable metal splint for added stability and a built-in bead design that applies gentle pressure to the palm of your hand and helps keep your wrist in one position. As an added bonus, this wrist brace has three adjustable Velcro straps that are easy to adjust for the perfect fit. Thanks to its dual-hand design, you can switch between the right and left wrists. The fabric is designed to help prevent sweat buildup. The only downside is the bulky design, which makes it hard to perform day-to-day functions like using your mobile phone. But because most healthcare providers recommend only splinting your wrist at night when you have CTS, this may not be a huge problem. Key Specs: Pros Three adjustable straps for a secure fit Lightweight breathable material Allows for movement when needed Cons Stitching can be bothersome When you have an inflamed tendon or tendonitis, it can take some time to recover. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications and a brace like the BraceUp Wrist Brace. The brace has three adjustable straps to give you the stability and security you need to allow your tendons to heal.In addition to the extra support from the straps, the lightweight aluminum splint and mesh material create a secure spot for your wrist that is both comfortable and breathable. It should be noted, though, that the stitching in this brace can be bothersome for some. If you want a more seamless design, you may prefer the ComfyBrace Premium Lined Wrist Support, which we recommend below. However, tendonitis usually only needs short-term bracing, so you may decide the stitching is not a huge issue. Key Specs: Pros Lightweight, breathable fabric Great for daily use 60-day unconditional guarantee Cons Only one size The Vive Wrist Brace is our top pick for seniors and other people who may need wrist support on a daily basis due to its breathability, ease of use, and lightweight fabric. This wrist brace has a lightweight removable splint that stabilizes your wrist in a neutral position. The neoprene fabric allows the brace to retain therapeutic heat and improve circulation without causing your wrist to overheat. The two adjustable straps allow you to customize the amount of compression you want based on pain, inflammation, and swelling. This is a great brace for sprains, strains, and tendonitis. Vive offers a 60-day unconditional guarantee, so if you purchase it and it doesn’t fit, you can always return it. The brace comes in only one size, so it may not fit some people. Key Specs: Pros Built-in bead keeps wrist from moving Removable metal splint Promotes sleep Cons Only one size If you’re looking for no-fuss wrist support to alleviate wrist pain and provide good support without interrupting your sleep, consider the ComfyBrace Night Wrist Support. This one-size-fits-all brace features a breathable slip-on sleeve, a removable splint, and a beaded cushion that supports your wrist while sleeping. The ergonomic design also allows you to use the brace on either hand, so unless you need to brace both wrists, you only need to purchase one. This brace is the perfect solution for relief from carpal tunnel syndrome, post-cast wrist pain, and other conditions that plague you at night while you try to sleep. One downside to this brace is that it only comes in one size, which can create a problem with fit. Fortunately, the company offers a hassle-free lifetime replacement if you purchase the brace and realize it doesn’t work. Key Specs: Pros Offers a neutral healing position Keeps you from making painful movements while recovering Padded and breathable Cons May be too heavy for some If you need a wrist support or brace that allows your hand and wrist to rest and recover—such as from nerve damage, an accident, or post-surgery—your healthcare provider may recommend a resting splint. The Braceability Resting Hand Splint is designed to support your hand and wrist, promote healing, and reduce pain and swelling. Unlike other immobilizers, this resting hand splint supports your hand, wrist, and fingers in a neutral healing position and keeps you from making any painful movements while you recover. What’s more, it's made of padded, breathable materials that offer comfortable, functional positioning regardless of what you are doing. Keep in mind this wrist support is the heaviest on our list, weighing in at 5.29 ounces. While that may not seem like a lot, for someone with small hands or decreased muscle tone, it may be a challenge. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether or not this resting splint is best for your recovery. Key Specs: Pros Minimalistic design Lightweight breathable material Allows for good mobility Cons Thumb opening may be too small for some The Wellgate PerfectFit Wrist Support offers a slender profile that is perfect for people with smaller bone structures. Designed to relieve pain from carpal tunnel, arthritis, and minor strains or sprains, this wrist brace is lightweight and breathable. The memory foam interior provides cushy comfort. Also, due to the slimmer design, the Wellgate wrist support allows for more mobility and less restriction, which can be great for people who only need a little bit of support while gaming, using the computer, or writing. If you have a smaller bone structure and tend to find that wrist supports are usually too big, this may be the one for you. The thumb hole can be a little restrictive or even too small for some people. Key Specs: Pros Minimalist design Allows for good mobility Breathable construction Cons May not provide enough support If you’re used to being active, nothing is more frustrating than when wrist pain keeps you sidelined. The ComfyBrace Premium Lined Wrist Brace is a low-profile wrist support that is so comfortable you may even forget you are wearing it. With a breathable construction that does not retain moisture, this wrist brace will give you the support you seek without hindering your movements. If you need a lot of support, this may not be the brace for you. The minimalist design is better suited for people with minor wrist pain who need extra support. Key Specs: Pros Three straps for maximum adjustability Minimizes twisting and flexing Well padded for extra comfort Cons Can get a little warm at times Whether you have carpal tunnel or a wrist injury of some sort, finding being able to adjust your support is important—especially because some days require more support than others. We found the Futuro Deluxe Wrist Stabilizer the perfect answer to that dilemma. This wrist support allows you to make adjustments as needed with three independent Velcro straps, giving you a more tailored fit. What’s more, you can make this support as tight as you need with confidence that it will not pinch you. The support does a great job minimizing any twisting or flexing of your wrist, while the memory foam interior ensures extra comfort and support. With so many straps and extra padding, this wrist support can get a little warm. Even with that drawback, you can’t beat this wrist support's extra support and adjustability. Key Specs: When developing our list of recommended wrist supports, we consulted with various hand and wrist specialists to determine what to look for when selecting a product. We also asked about different types of bracing, how long wrist braces should be worn, and whether they are always appropriate for treating wrist pain. Then, we spent hours researching the different types of wrist braces on the market, evaluating everything from their weight and sizing to the type of support they offer. The end result was a comprehensive list of wrist braces designed to treat various types of wrist pain. Experts we interviewed to select the best wrist supports include: Can you wear a wrist brace all day? Generally, if you’re wearing a brace to provide complete rest for a joint, you need to wear it all day, but if it's just for support, then you should take breaks and stretch to avoid stiffness, Auliff says. That being said, one of the major risks associated with wrist supports is wearing the brace for too long, says Auliff. While it varies based on the injury or condition, doing so may make you susceptible to muscle weakening and stiffening of the surrounding joints, muscles, and tendons. Talk to a healthcare provider about your specific situation to determine whether a wrist support or brace could help alleviate your pain. How tight should the wrist support be? When selecting a wrist brace, you want to look for something with firm support that allows full range of motion without cutting off your circulation, Sforzo says. It also should be adjustable so you can loosen it when needed. The general rule of thumb is that you should be able to get one to two fingers under each strap, Auliff says. Will a wrist brace alleviate pain? If you have a sprain, strain, or inflammation, wearing a brace will allow the wrist joint to rest, Halim says. In these situations, wearing a wrist support or brace helps prevent pain associated with moving an irritated or inflamed joint or stressing an injured ligament. Additionally, many people with carpal tunnel syndrome find that wearing a brace overnight alleviates the pain associated with the condition and keeps them from waking from pain or discomfort at night, she adds. Sherri Gordon, CLC, has been covering health and social issues for nearly 20 years and has written countless articles with a health focus. Consequently, she is well versed and knowledgeable about a number of health conditions—like carpal tunnel and osteoarthritis—that impact our everyday lives. Plus, as someone who spends multiple hours per day on a computer, Sherri knows how important it is to find a comfortable and well-fitting brace to alleviate discomfort and pain that comes from repetitive motions.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Best-Wrist-Supports-for-All-Types-of-Wrist-Pain-tout-1dfd10bb08564f3fb76d29752e1f0fea.jpg "Stop Wrist Pain With the Best Wrist Supports for Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, and More (1)")
When to Consult a Doctor
Best Overall
Copper Compression Wrist Brace
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Material: Nylon/Copper | Sizes: S/M and L/XL | Weight: 2.4 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
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Material: Neoprene blend | Sizes: One size, adjustable | Weight: 1.45 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
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Material: Neoprene | Sizes: S-XL | Weight: 1.45 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
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Material: Nylon and Neoprene Blend | Sizes: One size, adjustable | Weight: 3.84 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
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Material: Polyester | Sizes: S/M and L/XL | Weight: 4.16 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro and loops Why We Recommend It
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Material: Neoprene | Sizes: One size | Weight: 2.89 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
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Material: Not listed | Sizes: One size | Weight: 3.84 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
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Material: Nylon | Sizes: XS-XL | Weight: 5.29 ounces | Closure Type: VelcroBest for Smaller Wrists
Wellgate PerfectFit Wrist Brace
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Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Material: Memory Foam | Sizes: One size | Weight: 2.4 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Material: Not listed | Sizes: One size| Weight: 1.26 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro Why We Recommend It
Keep in Mind
Materials: Polyester, nylon, neoprene | Sizes: S/M and L/XL | Weight: 3.2 ounces | Closure Type: Velcro How We Selected the Best Wrist Supports
What to Look For in Wrist Supports
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Health
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