Carpal Tunnel Relief Splint

The median nerve that brings sensation to the large part of the hand is protected by a tunnel formed by tissues, bones, ligaments and tendons that converge in the wrist area. Inflammation of these components compresses the median nerves which could result to a tingling sensation on the fingers with numbness or pain resulting to a condition called carpal tunnel syndrome. Relief splints are indicated as a treatment option in carpal tunnel syndrome.

Causes & Symptoms

• Carpal tunnel zyndrome (CTS) is characterized by shooting pain in the wrist and forearm area that normally manifests at night or whenever the hands are strained. The thumb, index and middle fingers get tingling sensations and may become numb especially when the hand is used excessively.

  Common risk factors of CTS include obesity and diabetes. Musicians, gardeners, carpenters, grocery checkers, or basically anyone with hobbies, professions or activities that utilize hand movements for prolonged periods of time are at higher risk of acquiring CTS.

Description

• Surgery is always the last option to the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, unless hand functions are almost halted. Treatments with pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, plus special splints/braces remain to be the front line remedies for CTS.

  Splints or braces specific for CTS are made of a combination of fabric and hard material such as plastic or metal reinforcements that are molded to the contours of the hands to keep the wrist level, at rest and stable.

Types of Wrist Splints/Braces

• Medically designed and approved CTS splints are available in the market today. They come in all sorts of sizes and materials, but serve the same function of immobilizing the wrist area with the exemption of the thumb.

  CTS in arthritic patients requires the use of Thermo-Skin Thermal supports. The fabric absorbs heat from the body and releases it to make it more comfortable to wear for long periods. FLA Orthopedic Braces are the most recommended splints especially designed for the presence of CTS and other related conditions.

  For lightweight and stylish splints the ideal choice is the Cutting-edge Carpal Tunnel braces. For people who refuse to wear braces to work or anywhere out during the day, Nighttime Carpal Tunnel Braces are recommended. Another type of night carpal splint is called Imak-o-pill. For people whose jobs entail carrying heavy equipment the Ergodyne is the fittest choice.

  The lightest CTS splint or brace available in the market is the Mueller CT wrist splint. Despite its flimsy material, it clings to the skin closely and is found to alleviate painful symptoms in over 80 percent of users.

Prevention

• CTS is a highly preventable condition. Proper hand ergonomics are necessary in order to avoid overuse of the hand and wrist. Rest, massage and relaxation technique may be employed after using the hand from strenuous activities. You may lose weight and not work with arms too close or far from the body. Taking regular breaks and avoiding repeated hand movements is helpful.