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Hand & Wrist Arthritis & Contractures: Causes, Relief, and Recommended Braces

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 for Arthritis

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 for Hand Contractures

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 for Severe Contractures

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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Rediscover More Comfortable Hands & Wrists

If arthritis flare-ups or contractures hinder your everyday motions, a supportive brace can provide the alignment and relief you need. For extra help with sizing or to learn about our Perfect Fit Promise, explore our complete Hand & Wrist Arthritis & Contractures Collection below. Take a step toward improved comfort and stability today.

Shop Arthritis & Contracture Braces

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a WHFO? + –

WHFO stands for Wrist Hand Finger Orthosis. It’s a type of splint that supports the wrist, hand, and fingers in a more functional or resting position. It’s often used when there’s a need to stabilize multiple joints, such as in cases of advanced contractures or severe arthritis.

What type of splint is used for rheumatoid arthritis? + –

Many people with rheumatoid arthritis benefit from a resting hand or wrist splint that eases strain on inflamed joints. These designs typically provide mild compression and keep the hand in a neutral position, helping reduce pain and slow deformities while allowing some mobility for daily tasks.

What is the best resting hand splint? + –

he best resting hand splint varies based on your condition’s severity and which joints are affected. Look for a splint offering gentle support, adjustable straps, and soft padding around sensitive areas. If your fingers need positioning too, consider an option that extends into the palm or grips them. Many find success with the OCSI SoftPro Champ Resting WHFO for overall support.
OCSI SoftPro Champ Resting WHFO

Is it safe to wear a WHFO all day? + –

In some cases, yes, but it’s best to follow medical advice. Prolonged wear can prevent muscles from moving naturally and lead to stiffness. Many people wear their WHFO at night or during specific activities that trigger discomfort, then remove it periodically to do gentle exercises or stretches.

How does a resting splint help with contractures? + –

By holding the hand and wrist in a neutral, supported posture, a resting splint gently stretches tight tissues and helps avoid further bending. This alignment can lessen pain, minimize swelling, and slow the progress of joint or tendon shortening that leads to contractures.

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