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The best wrist braces of 2024, according to experts
Wrist pain is a common ailment many of us deal with, and it becomes especially prominent as we age. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jennifer Wood, tells Yahoo Life that, “By 2050, approximately 40% of trauma patients will be aged 65 or older,” based both on rising numbers of senior adults and the increasing number of active seniors. Additionally, she adds that fractures and other traumatic injuries in older patients can lead to longer, more complicated recovery processes than younger patients. One method for alleviating minor wrist pains and strains is by wearing a wrist brace specifically designed to be ergonomic, breathable, and supportive to help you alleviate discomfort and prevent future injuries.
Mueller Sports Medicine Fitted Wrist Brace
Best Wrist Brace for Overall Support
Dr. Arthritis Copper Wrist Brace
Best for Carpal Tunnel
Featol Wrist Brace
Best for tendonitis
Expoprox Wearable Gel Wrist Rest Pads
Best for typing
Featol Support Brace with Wrist Splint
Best for sprains
Arctic Flex Wrist Ice Pack Compression Support
Best for Cold Therapy
Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves
Best for Arthritis
ComfyBrace Night Wrist Sleep Support Brace
Best for Sleep Support
“When we choose braces for our patients, we look for a product that provides the appropriate level of compression based on their individual needs,” says Don Levine, PT, DPT. Wrist pain is not only caused by overuse and injury: arthritis — which often involves joint pain and stiffness — affects 58.5 million US adults; that number will likely rise as we have a larger older population, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While it’s always important to speak to a doctor about any wrist pain or issues, an over-the-counter wrist brace can bring relief and prevent further injury. To find the best wrist braces for everything from carpal tunnel to tendonitis, arthritis and overuse, we spoke with our panel of orthopedic experts and physical therapists to learn what to look for in a wrist brace, which style of brace is best for specific conditions, what materials and rigidness to look for as well. Using the experts' input, we’ve compiled a list of the best wrist braces based on the conditions treated, material, stability, customizable comfort, cost, tester feedback and user reviews.
Using the experts' guidance, we researched more than two dozen top-rated braces and personally tested a few ourselves. Here are the best wrist braces of 2024 according to our panel of experts and Yahoo testers.
Best overall wrist brace
Cost: $16 | Best for: Minor wrist injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, sprain, wrist pain | Sizes available: Small/Medium, Large/X-Large | Material: recycled, non-petroleum
As someone who’s struggled for years with carpel tunnel syndrome (CTS), which involves inflammation and pain in the wrist, fingers and hand, I bought this product based on my doctor’s recommendation and glowing Amazon reviews. And I still wear the wrist brace to this day.
The brace is made from breathable (and recycled!) material, and I can say, as a regular wearer, it’s never felt too tight or warm when I’ve worn it for extended periods. The velcro straps allow you to adjust the size to make it tighter or looser, depending on your needs. While I only wear the braces at night to avoid CTS numbness in the morning, you can also wear the brace during the day.
Other top wrist braces we recommend in 2024
Cost: $15 | Best For: Carpal Tunnel | Sizes available: One size | Material: Neoprene Copper-Lined
Carpal tunnel involves inflammation and pain in the wrist, fingers, and hand area - often most noticeable upon waking in the morning since most symptoms develop while you sleep (which is certainly the case for me!). Dr. Arthritis Copper Wrist Brace was the second brace I bought for CTS when the first brace I bought started wearing down. (I’ve been wearing braces for a few years now and tried quite a few before my doctor’s recommendation for the Mueller brace).
I’ve found that this one has better durability than any other brace I’ve used — the velcro is still going strong after multiple machine washes — which can likely be credited to it being doctor-designed with typical patient pitfalls in mind. It’s also good if you’re looking for a wrist brace that helps with other conditions like arthritis. I’ve also used these braces during the day whenever I have flare-ups, and it’s not too restricting but stiff enough to reduce swelling.
Cost: $14 | Best for: Arthritis, tendonitis, sprain, injuries, wrist pain | Sizes available: X-Small, Small/Medium, Medium/Large, Large/X-Large | Material: 75% foam, 15% polyester, 5% plastic, 5% metal
The Featol Wrist Brace offers three adjustable straps for customizable comfort and comes in four sizes (x-small up to x-large), making it a viable option for a broad range of people who suffer from tendonitis. The braces are also designed to be worn on either the right arm (shown here) or left arm — be sure you purchase the brace for the correct arm. To add to the customizable comfort, the brace has a removable aluminum palmer stay and two fixed plastic splints to provide stability and wrist support.
With more than 30,000 reviews (23,000 5-star), we can’t help but think this is one great brace! One reviewer even got their doctor’s approval: “The doctor's office said the brace probably looked as good or better than what they would give me,” said one reviewer.
Cost: $120 | Best for: wrist pain while typing | Sizes: One size fits most | Material: Spandex, cotton
The Exporox Wearable Gel Wrist Rest Pads are what I use for work. As a writer, I’m constantly on my laptop, and the amount of typing I do daily can easily cause pain and discomfort. The braces are heavily padded to allow your wrists to sit flush with a mouse or keyboard and have an open-finger design, allowing for full range of motion in my fingers to type. This is a two-piece set that helps reduce tension, carpal tunnel pain and joint stress, but that all said, these braces do not provide wrist support or stabilization as some of the other options on this list. If you’re looking for something to help make your work-from-home day a little easier, these wrist braces may be perfect for you.
Cost: $25 | Best for: Wrist injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, sprain | Sizes available: X-Small, Small/Medium, Medium/-Large, Large/X-Large | Material: 75% foam, 15% polyester, 5% plastic, 5% metal
This adjustable wrist brace is one of the few that offers a hot or cold therapy gel pack insert, which can be especially helpful for pain associated with wrist sprains. “Braces that include inserts for ice or heat packs can be beneficial for pain, inflammation and swelling,” says Stephen J. Wallace, M.D., an orthopedic trauma and deformity specialist. You can wear the brace throughout the day or at night, offering flexibility based on when your pain flares up. That said, only one gel pack is included, so if you need more than one, you can buy the packs separately. The brace is also equipped with a curved aluminum splint that is ergonomically designed to offer support and comfort while healing.
Cost: $12 | Best for: Minor wrist injuries, sprain, wrist pain | Sizes available: One-size | Material: Neoprene blend, latex-free
With pickleball enjoying its second year in a row as the fastest growing sport, the injuries are also mounting, including sprains and strains from head to toe. Whether you are a new or seasoned pickleball player, you likely already know how easy a wrist injury can be between all the wrist twisting when serving or returning the ball. Tendinitis in the wrist and elbow are two such injuries many are suffering from. For this reason, we love the Artic Flex compression brace thanks to the ice pack wrap that delivers instant soothing relief for swelling and inflammation. Although it only comes in one size, the brace is adjustable and the material is also latex-free. One reviewer called it a “lifesaver,” and, for only $12, it’s a great, affordable find worth keeping on hand (pun intended)!
Cost: $30 | Best for: Arthritis, compression | Sizes: X-small, small, medium, large, extra-large | Material: Copper-infused soft breathable fabric
Arthritis sufferers are all too familiar with the pain, inflammation, stiffness and swelling that comes with the often debilitating condition. These copper compression arthritis gloves are a great solution for those painful flare-ups. The easy-on-and-off gloves provide the compression needed to help with pain and stiffness throughout the day. Made with moisture-wicking material to keep your palms dry and fingers comfortable, and thanks to the durable, copper-infused machine-washable material, you don't have to worry about the gloves staying clean with daily use.
Cost: $15 | Best for: Minor wrist injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, sprain, wrist pain | Sizes available: One size fits most | Material: Proprietary high-quality breathable fabric
This ComfyBrace wrist brace was explicitly made for sleeping, and most reviewers say it definitely does its job! This washable brace, which fits both hands, provides gentle pressure and support to relieve pain, inflammation and swelling in the wrist for conditions like CTS and arthritis that tend to flare up at night. It also has a removable palmar splint for ergonomic support and instant support and relief. We also love that the easy slip-on sleeve design offers comfortable day and nightwear.
What to look for in a wrist brace
Conditions treated: Choose a brace tailored to your needs, whether for CTS, arthritis or a sports injury.
Compression: Compression is important, but how much compression you need will depend on your situation. “When we choose braces for our patients, we look for a product that provides the appropriate level of compression based on their individual needs,” says Don Levine, PT, DPT. Talk with your doctor to see what will work best for you.
Material: Choose a brace made from material that is durable, lightweight, breathable and machine washable.
Comfort: Be certain you choose a brace that is comfortable to wear so you will actually wear it. Tip: Look for user reviews that rave about comfort.
Hot or cold therapy: Some braces offer gel-pack inserts so you can easily apply hot or cold therapy to reduce pain and swelling. If this is something you will benefit from, make sure you choose a wrist brace with that feature.
When should I contact my doctor about a wrist injury?
You should see a doctor as soon as possible if you feel severe pain, have a fever with the pain, notice deformity or severe swelling or experience abnormal symptoms. Additionally, the University of Utah Health lists several symptoms that indicate you need to see a doctor if:
The pain worsens, even after you rest your hand or wrist
You feel pain even when you’re not using your hand
You feel pain when you do everyday movements, such as typing
Your hand or wrist is warm, tender or red, indicating you may have an infection
How we chose the best wrist braces
Our team interviewed orthopedic doctors in various fields of expertise, including athletic health specialists, hand and wrist specialists and surgeons, along with physical therapist who help with postoperative rehabilitation. Additionally, we reviewed over two dozen wrist braces and personally tested quite a few, including braces that treat CTS, tendonitis, arthritis and general wrist injuries. Finally, we chose the best products based on expert advice, materials used, brand reputation, cost, first-person testing and user reviewers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which wrist brace is best for my injury?
The type of wrist brace you choose will depend on your needs. For older adults and those recovering from an injury or sprain, Levine recommends using a firmer, more rigid brace. While rigid braces offer less compression, they’re more stabilizing, which can help with pain management and aid in recovery. Of course, when in doubt, consult with a doctor or health care professional.
How long can I wear a wrist brace?
If you plan to wear the brace for a prolonged period, you should consult with your health care provider first. “Prolonged bracing can lead to stiffness and weakness,” says Dr. Melissa Boyette, an orthopedic surgeon. “I would caution against wearing a brace longer than a few weeks if you have not been evaluated by a physician.”
Are wrist braces safe for everyone to wear?
If you have a condition or symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis pain, tendonitis or a mild sprain, wearing a wrist brace can be very helpful. Wrist braces are generally considered safe as long as they're worn correctly. A wrist brace should also fit well, not too tight or cause chafing or skin irritation. Again, it’s always best to talk to a doctor about treatment options for your specific needs.
How many hours a day should you wear a wrist brace?
It really depends on your condition. Most experts agree, however, that wearing a wrist brace shouldn’t replace seeing a physician. “The duration for wearing a brace depends on the nature and severity of the injury, as well as the recommendations provided by a health care professional,” says neurosurgeon Denning.
Do wrist braces help with carpal tunnel?
For quality wrist braces, the answer is yes. “Most braces are adjustable, allowing for expansion with soft tissue swelling,” says Wallace. “As the swelling improves with the healing process, you can tighten the brace to ensure a stable and comfortable fit.” In addition to speaking with your doctor, you may need to try a few braces before you find the right fit.
Meet our experts
Melissa Boyette, MD, orthopedic surgeon
Jeremy Denning, MD, board-certified neurosurgeon
Stephen J. Wallace, MD, orthopedic trauma and deformity specialist
Jennifer Wood, MD, orthopedic surgeon
Don Levine, PT, DPT, a physical, sports and hand therapy expert
