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The best wrist braces of 2024 for carpal tunnel, arthritis and more
Wrist injuries can make everyday activities like working on the computer, gardening, or even pushing a shopping cart difficult to near impossible. And with winter on its way, carpal tunnel sufferers know firsthand (pun intended!) that wrist pain makes that pile of leaves or mounding snow drift in the driveway even more daunting. Unfortunately, arm injuries, carpal tunnel and wrist arthritis are all incredibly common. A recent study found that over a ten-year period, an average of 2.6 million people with wrist injuries were treated in US emergency rooms annually. Furthermore, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) not only affects over 8 million Americans annually, it's the most expensive upper-extremity musculoskeletal disorder, with an estimated cost of medical care in the US exceeding $2 billion annually.
Featol Wrist Brace with Wrist Splint
Best for overall support
Arctic Flex Wrist Ice Pack - Refreezable Gel Compression Support
Best for sprains
EXPOPROX Gel Wrist Rest Pads
Best for typing
Copper compression fingerless arthritis gloves
Best for arthritis
Mueller Sports Medicine Fitted Wrist Brace
Best for carpal tunnel
ComfyBrace Night Wrist Sleep Support Brace
Best for sleep support
Dr. Frederick's Original Reversible Copper Infused Wrist and Thumb Brace
Best for tendonitis
Wellgate PerfectFit Wrist Brace
Best for all-day support
In cases of minor wrist pain, CTS, arthritis, injuries and sprains, it's often recommended that the patient wear a wrist brace throughout the healing process to provide extra support, pain relief, and protection from further injury. "I often recommend the use of over-the-counter braces for seniors with breaks, sprains, or joint pain. Braces can provide support, stability, and pain relief, allowing them to continue their daily activities while minimizing the risk of further injury," says Dr. Jeremy Denning, board-certified and fellowship-trained neurosurgeon.
To better understand the different types of wrist braces available and how each can help with various conditions, we spoke with multiple medical professionals, including doctors, surgeons and physical therapists to find out which braces they recommended the most, what to look for in a great wrist brace, and what to avoid. We then researched and reviewed over forty different types of braces - testing quite a few ourselves - to find the best wrist braces for various injuries, needs and budgets. Here are the best wrist braces of 2024 for wrist injuries, daily carpal tunnel relief, arthritis and preventative support.
The best wrist braces in 2024
Best for: Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, Tendonitis, Ganglion cyst, sprain and minor injury | Material: 75% Foam, 15% Polyester, 5% Plastic, 5% Metal | Adjustable? Three adjustable straps on wrist
If you’re looking for a brace that offers maximum immobilization, the FEATOL wrist brace is your best bet. The brand offers several options, but my top pick is the night support brace with wrist splint, adjustable straps, and a hot/ice pack. It features a reusable gel pack for hot or cold therapy and a removable metal splint for added durability and support. Reviewers also noted how comfortable it is – considering that highly stabilizing braces are inherently less comfortable, that’s what sold me.
One downside is that it only comes with one gel pack. Sure, it’s reusable, but anyone who’s ever used a gel pack knows how quickly they can become, well, gross. Even with constant hand washes, eventually, the gel starts to break down and it no longer performs as well. Thankfully, replacement gel packs are available, but a backup pack would have been nice.
Best for: Sprains, Injuries, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Tendonitis, Carpal Tunnel | Material: Latex-free neoprene blend | Adjustable? Wrist wrap adjusts for compression levels
It’s a good idea to apply ice to a sprained wrist to reduce pain and swelling, and the Arctic Flex Wrist Ice Pack makes that easy and convenient.
Generally speaking, you should ice your wrist for 20-30 minutes every three or four hours, especially in the first few days of injury. Of course, you could always use a bag of frozen peas, but doing that for half an hour multiple times a day can really limit your ability to get things done. Talk about an inconvenience! A more practical solution would be a wearable ice pack.
The Artic Flex wrist brace with ice pack is soft and comfortable with an adjustable design. It’s also multi-purposed; you can use it for cold or heat therapy, and it’s reversible, so it can be worn on either the right or left wrist. Plus, the compression wrap will help support your wrist while still leaving you with full finger mobility.
Best for: Typing | Material: Spandex, cotton | Adjustable? Wrist strap adjusts for tightness
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. I’ve tried several different braces in the past for wrist pain relief, but these are by far the most comfortable. They are heavily padded and have an open-finger design, which means I have full range of motion to type.
It’s worth noting that these aren’t typical wrist braces, but rather wrist pads. Because of that, they don’t provide as much wrist support or stabilization as some of the other options on this list. If you’re looking for something that will help make your work-from-home day a little easier, this is the one for you.
However, it’s not the best choice if you need a highly stabilizing brace.
Best for: Arthritis, Carpal Tunnel, Tendonitis | Material: Moisture-wicking fabric with copper fibers | Adjustable? No, order by size
Arthritis sufferers are all too familiar with the inflammation, pain, stiffness and swelling that comes with the, at times, debilitating condition. Compression and heat can improve arthritis symptoms by increasing circulation and blood flow. The Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves offer a comfortable, lightweight option for those looking to relieve aches from arthritis or joint pain.. The gloves are machine washable and infused with copper for an antimicrobial, breathable material.
Best for: Carpal Tunnel | Material: Fabric made from recycled materials | Adjustable? Two adjustable straps, comes in small/medium or large/extra large
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused when the median nerve in the wrist is pinched – often due to repetitive motions like typing, sewing, or painting – which leads to numbness or tingling in the hand. For CTS, you’ll want a brace that keeps your wrist in a supported, neutral position to reduce pressure on the median nerve while still allowing range of motion in your fingers.
The Mueller Sports Medicine fitted carpal tunnel wrist brace does exactly that. It offers a great deal of wrist support without limiting finger dexterity. Another plus is the material used. Eco-warriors will love that it’s environmentally friendly – made from latex-free recycled materials. Everyone else will love the fact that it’s soft, lightweight, and breathable.
Some reviewers did note that the limited wrist mobility can become uncomfortable after several hours, but that’s likely the case with any super supportive brace.
Best for: Carpal Tunnel, Arthritis, Tendonitis, and post-injury | Material: Breathable, proprietary fabric | Adjustable? Straps are adjustable
Anyone who’s ever worn a wrist brace knows that they can be hot and bulky. Even the most comfortable brace can quickly feel like it’s in the way – especially at night.
But when it comes to comfort, the ComfyBrace night wrist sleep support brace is an exceptional option. It has a plush, cushiony feel and lightweight, breathable fabric. Meaning, you can wear it all night without waking up covered in sweat.
It’s only available in one size, though. There are small Velcro straps so you can make adjustments, but they’re pretty small. On the plus side, that means it’s not bulky at all. But for those with smaller wrists, it may be a looser fit than you want and need.
Best for: Tendonitis of the wrist, de Quervain’s, Dupuytren's contracture, Arthritis | Material: Copper-infused Nylon | Adjustable? Adjustable wrist and thumb straps
Dr. Frederick's original reversible copper-infused wrist and thumb brace offers comfortable, firm wrist support specifically meant to help with tendonitis pain.
Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon, the connective tissue between muscle and bone. It can happen to any tendon in the body, but it’s most commonly seen in the elbows, shoulders, or knees. You can also have wrist tendonitis. One of the most common forms is known as de Quervain’s, which affects the thumb side of the wrist, so the best brace is one that will keep your thumb extended and your wrist in a neutral position.
Dr. Frederick's wrist and thumb brace does exactly that.
It’s worth noting that this brace only comes in a one-size-fits-all style and, although it fits most adults, some reviewers with smaller hands have said the straps aren’t tight enough in the thumb area.
Best for: All-day support and comfort | Material: Memory foam | Adjustable? Two adjustable wrist straps
The Wellgate PerfectFit wrist brace offers comfort and support in equal measure. It’s made with high-quality memory foam, so it’s incredibly soft and lightweight. The fabric is snug, giving you a ton of wrist support and compression, but it’s also breathable, so you can literally wear it all day.
It is specifically designed with women in mind, though, so it’s not as versatile as some other unisex options. But depending on who you are and the fit you need, that just might be a pro!
How to choose a wrist brace
Type of wrist brace
As you have seen, there are many different types of wrist brace ranging in size, materials, support, rigidness, compression, added hot or cold therapy, and even designed for day or night wear. It's crucial you choose a brace suited to your injury, condition and needs. If you are unsure which brace is best, you should consult with a medical professional to ensure that you not only choose the correct brace, but also to prevent further injury.
Compression
The level of compression a brace offers can be the difference between instant pain relief or increased pain. While compression sleeves are great for arthritis, it will not provide the level of support needed for sprains. “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 physical therapist Don Levine.
Material
Being that you'll need to wear the brace for prolonged periods of time, make sure the material is comfortable, breathable and machine washable.
Hot or cold therapy
Dr. Jennifer Wood, an orthopedic surgeon, tells us, "Some braces also include cold and/or hot therapy. In general, cold therapy is most beneficial in the first few days after injury, and heat therapy can be helpful when further along in the recovery phase and attempting to regain flexibility in the joint. When in question about what type of brace would be best for you, consult with your healthcare provider."
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a wrist brace help me?
For minor injuries, there’s a simple, at-home remedy known as RICE – rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Wearing a brace keeps your wrist immobile, supported and provides gentle compression. Some braces also come with cold packs, so you can get an extra bang for your buck.
How do I know which wrist brace is best for me?
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 healthcare professional.
Are wrist braces safe for everyone to wear?
If you have a condition or symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, tendonitis, or a mild sprain, wearing a wrist brace can be incredibly helpful. They’re generally considered safe as long as they’re used correctly. A wrist brace shouldn’t be 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 do wrist braces work?
Most wrist braces wrap around your wrist and forearm while leaving your fingers free. There are different types of braces available, but regardless, they work by keeping your wrist in a stable, neutral position, which helps to reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort.
Is it safe to wear a wrist brace all day?
While most braces are safe for all-day wear, how long you wear the brace and when, depends on the injury. Wrist sprains or fractures will likely require all-day bracing. Those with carpal tunnel, on the other hand, may choose to wear a brace only while sleeping or during a repetitive task, like typing.
How long should you wear a wrist brace?
The length of time needed varies by person and condition. “Braces can provide needed support,” Levine says, “However, long-term bracing can lead to loss of motion and strength.” That’s because muscles will atrophy when not used for extended periods of time. In one study, wearing a wrist brace for six weeks offered improvement for those with carpal tunnel. However, there was no additional improvement when the length of time was extended to 12 weeks.
Does age play a role in the prevalence of injury?
“As we age, we begin losing bone density. Balance issues are also prevalent, so falls are more likely to happen and cause injury,” explains, Don Levine, a physical therapist specializing in sports medicine and hand therapy. “The senior fall injuries we see most are fractures of the hips, shoulders, and wrists.” If you're experiencing pain in your knee, we have suggestions for the best knee braces of 2024, too. If you’re worried about your balance, hips and back, see our suggestions for the best orthopedic shoes in 2024, according to experts.
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
