The technology behind sports braces and supports has improved dramatically in recent years, with companies like BioSkin offering a bespoke range of materials to compete with neoprene as part of their performance apparel range. There are a range of hand support options in both neoprene and the Bioskin material options.
What is a hand support?
There are different types of products on the market, each design managing a different condition. One thing all supports have in common is that they are designed to protect the hand, either as a preventative tool or to aid during recovery following an injury or surgery.
Following a simple sprain or strain the use of a compressive hand support can help to manage inflammation and reduce the pain felt by the patient. This improved stability and increased protection can be invaluable after an injury and give you the confidence to continue as normal. For more serious injuries there are some products which immobilise the hand or wrist, limiting the chance of further damage being sustained to the original injury.
What are the benefits of wearing a hand support?
They can work in both a physical and mental way to benefit the patient. Physically the support offers a greater level of protection to the affected area which is beneficial in being able to get back to full fitness faster.
They can also work positively from a mental perspective as by using a hand support there is a perception of increased mobility with a safety net in place. If you know you are protected then you are prepared to go harder and faster because you know your support is designed to handle it.
What hand support options are available?
There are different types of products available, from those which focus specifically on the thumb to a variety of wrist supports covering the management of varying injuries.
A thumb spica hand support is designed to limit the movement of the wrist and specifically the thumb without limiting finger motion. This type of support is typically worn as a result of conditions such as Gamekeeper's Thumb, De Quervain's Tendonitis or through torn collateral ligaments.
Following minor sprains or strains you need a product which will still allow full movement whilst still being able to offer compression, stability and protection during recovery. There are a number of products from Bioskin such as the Boomerang which are specifically designed for light injuries such a Tendonitis and offer controlled compression as well as an additional level of protection. The support itself is also discreet and allows a patient to continue with their daily routine unhindered.
For serious sprains or following a break there are options available which can immobilise the wrist. By restricting movement the wrist is allowed time to heal fully without restricting use of the fingers and thumb i.e. you can still use your keyword. This type of support can be used following conditions such as Carpal Tunnel, Bursitis or Arthritis where restricting movement is essential for offer a full recovery.
Which hand support should I select?
With such an extensive range of products available, selecting the correct one can be a difficult choice. The first stage of selecting the correct hand support is in knowing your injury or the type of injury you wish to protect against. If you are ever in doubt you should always refer to a clinician for a professional diagnosis, from which they may be able to identify the most relevant product available.
To some extent, personal preference can also play a part in the decision process in terms of the material selected and the fit it provides. You need a close fit which, whilst not being restrictive remains comfortable and does not move out of position.
It is always worth pointing out that you should always purchase the correct product for the condition you wish to manage to ensure it does what you want it to do. The right hand support for the wrong condition is the wrong hand support, therefore selection is pivotal in ensuring you give yourself the best chance of a speedy recovery.