A wrist splint can be worn to support the wrist while holding it firm
and still (immobilize it).
A good wrist splint should:
- Be comfortable, washable, durable, and easy to
remove.
- Keep the wrist in a neutral position. The wrist is
generally in a neutral position when you are holding a glass of water, with the
thumb in line with the forearm.
- Restrict wrist movements while
allowing fine hand movements.
Splints are available without a prescription from a drugstore, or
with a prescription from an orthopedic or medical supply house. Physical and
occupational therapists can custom-fit splints made from lightweight materials.
This often reduces the clumsiness of wearing a splint.
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Herbert von Schroeder, MD, MSc, FRCSC - Hand and Microvascular Surgery |
|
Last Revised
|
October 2, 2012 |