To choose the best hand brace, you must determine why you need a brace. The reason might be something you’re familiar with, such as a sprained hand, or it might be more serious like a broken wrist or carpal tunnel syndrome. For this reason, it’s safest to get a doctor’s diagnosis. Once you know why you need a brace, you can begin comparing the types of braces designed for your needs and made with features that will make the brace as comfortable and unobtrusive as possible. Depending on why you need the brace, you might be able to find one at a local pharmacy or sporting goods store, or you might need to obtain one from a doctor or physical therapist.
Before you can choose the best hand brace, you must first understand why you need a brace. If it’s a simple condition such as a sprained wrist, and you’ve had experience with the condition before, shopping for the right brace will take only a few steps. On the other hand, if you’ve broken any fingers or are experiencing pain you’ve never felt before, it’s best to see your doctor and obtain a diagnosis. Having a diagnosis is important not only to treat the problem, but also to purchase the right brace for the condition.
Once you determine why you need a hand brace, you can look for the types of hand braces designed specifically for your needs. For example, if you were diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, you would look for a carpal tunnel syndrome brace specifically. A sprained or weakened wrist might require a special wrist brace, just as a sprained hand might require a hand splint or a brace with a built-in splint mechanism. Depending on why you need a hand brace, you might need to choose one designed to immobilize one or more of your fingers. This is usually necessary if any fingers are broken, but avoid selecting a brace that immobilizes your fingers, especially your thumb, unless your injury calls for it.
There are different kinds of hand braces for different conditions, but there are different types of braces among those selections, too. Look for a hand brace with features that will both stabilize your hand or wrist and allow you to continue using your hand. Hand braces are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Choose one that covers only as much of your wrist and hand, and is only as sturdy, as necessary. Otherwise, you could find the brace is too bulky, stiff, and restraining for your needs.
Hand braces are relatively inexpensive and available at most pharmacies, medical supply stores, and establishments that sell physical therapy products. Many department stores with sports and athletics sections also sell hand braces. Depending on your condition, you might obtain your hand brace from your doctor, the hospital, or a physical therapy center. These braces could cost more than store-bought braces, but they’re designed specifically for conditions other braces can’t accommodate, such as broken fingers or a wrist healing from a break.
