Hand & Wrist Arthritis & Contractures: Braces for Pain Relief & Mobility

Whether you’re managing osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or dealing with contractures like Dupuytren’s, finding the right brace can ease tension on your joints and help you stay active. A stable splint provides gentle compression, alignment, and protection against painful movements. Below, we’ll outline common causes, how braces help, and some recommended products for more comfortable, functional hands and wrists.

Common Causes & Symptoms

• Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear in the joint surfaces leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation, swelling, and potential deformities over time.
• Dupuytren’s Contracture or Severe Contractures: Thickening or tightening of tissues that bend fingers or wrist, limiting extension.
• Joint Stiffness: Prolonged immobility or scar tissue can lock joints in a painful position.

Many experience ongoing aches, difficulty gripping, and issues with fine motor tasks like buttoning clothes or handling utensils. Joint swelling and tenderness around the knuckles or wrist are also common.

How Splints & Braces Improve Comfort

A well-fitted brace or splint can:

• Limit unwanted motion that stresses arthritic or inflamed joints.
• Provide gentle compression, helping reduce swelling and pain.
• Encourage proper alignment to slow the progression of deformities or contractures.
• Support daily function by stabilizing weakened areas without locking your entire hand.

Some braces only support the wrist, while others address finger placement or extend coverage to the thumb. Choose one that matches your specific condition and everyday demands.

Recommended Braces & Splints for Arthritis & Contractures

Here are our top picks to stabilize joints, reduce pain, and help maintain mobility:

Brace Direct Universal Thumb Stabilizer Splint

Combines wrist and thumb support for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid stiffness, or mild contractures. Adjustable straps maintain comfort throughout the day.

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OCSI SoftPro Champ Resting WHFO

Gently extends the wrist and fingers, helping reduce tightness and bending from contractures or advanced arthritis. Ideal for nighttime use or prolonged rest.

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OCSI SoftPro Grip WHFO

Designed for severe contractures and joint stiffness. Provides a resting grip position that helps prevent further deformity and eases tension in the hand.

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