Pickleball brings joy and competition, but repetitive movements can strain your wrists and hands. If you’re struggling with arthritis pain, finding the best hand brace is crucial to returning to the court with confidence. This guide dives deep into the different types of braces, key features to consider, and popular brands to help you choose the perfect support for reclaiming your pain-free pickleball passion.
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If you experience pain, stiffness, or tingling associated with arthritis or carpal tunnel, a hand brace can offer much-needed support. But with various options available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.
Ahead are different types of hand braces and key features to consider so you can find the best best hand brace for arthritis, optimal comfort and relief.
Understanding Your Needs
First things first, consult your doctor or a hand therapist. They can diagnose your condition, assess its severity, and recommend the most suitable brace type. Remember, self-diagnosis and treatment are never advisable.
Types of Hand Braces
Wrist Brace
Thumb Brace
Splints
Compression Gloves
Activity Specific Braces
What is the best hand brace for arthritis?
Wrist Braces
Wrist braces provide general support and compression for the entire wrist joint, often used for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Some offer adjustable straps for a customized fit.
BRACEOWL Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace, Mueller Green Fitted Wrist Brace
Dr. Arthritis Doctor Developed Copper Wrist Brace/Wrap for Carpal Tunnel Support, Splint Brace
Thumb Brace
Designed specifically for thumb pain and conditions like De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis affects the tendons responsible for thumb movement and grip. These tendons, located at the base of your thumb on the wrist side, become inflamed and irritated due to overuse, causing pain and discomfort.
Activities like gripping a pickleball paddle, lifting heavy objects, or even certain gardening tasks can trigger this condition.
The thumb brace comes in various styles, including open-fingered and closed-fingered options.
FUTURO Comfort Thumb Stabilizer, Dr. Comfort TriLoc Thumb Brace
This thumb stabilizer is designed for right or left thumb and stabilizes and supports sore or injured thumb joints.
Splints
Rigid braces that immobilize the wrist or thumb completely.
They’re usually recommended for short-term use after injuries or surgery.
Hely & Weber Wrist Immobilizer Splint, Orliman Wrist Splint
Compression Gloves
These full-hand coverings offer mild compression to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
They can be helpful for managing arthritis pain.
Compression gloves have emerged as a popular solution for individuals grappling with arthritis, particularly among pickleball enthusiasts seeking relief from joint discomfort while maintaining an active lifestyle.
Compression gloves have gained traction as a practical accessory offering both support and comfort during play.
As the pickleball community continues to expand across various age groups, arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation and stiffness in the joints, poses challenges for players eager to enjoy the sport to its fullest.
By providing targeted support, promoting circulation, and reducing swelling, these gloves enable players to stay active, competitive, and pain-free on the court.
As the pickleball community continues to thrive, compression gloves are poised to remain a staple accessory, empowering players to pursue their passion for the sport with confidence and comfort.
Arthritis affects millions worldwide
Arthritis affects millions worldwide, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain.
While there is no cure for arthritis, managing its effects is crucial for maintaining quality of life. This is where compression gloves come into play.
Crafted from breathable, elastic materials such as spandex or nylon, these gloves exert gentle pressure on the hands, fingers, and wrists, promoting blood circulation and reducing swelling—a common symptom of arthritis.
In the realm of pickleball, where hand-eye coordination and dexterity are paramount, arthritis can significantly hinder performance and enjoyment.
However, many players have found relief through the use of compression gloves. By providing targeted support to the joints most affected by arthritis, these gloves enable players to maintain a firm grip on the paddle, execute precise shots, and move with greater ease on the court.
One of the key benefits of compression gloves is their versatility
Whether players are grappling with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other forms of joint pain, these gloves offer a non-invasive, drug-free solution that can be easily incorporated into their pickleball routine.
Moreover, compression gloves are available in various styles and designs, allowing players to choose the option that best suits their preferences and needs.
For pickleball enthusiasts, staying active and engaged in the sport is not just about competition—it’s a lifestyle.
By alleviating the discomfort associated with arthritis, compression gloves empower players to continue pursuing their passion for pickleball without compromise.
A Fashion Statement
In addition to their practical benefits, compression gloves have also become a fashion statement within the pickleball community.
With an array of colors, patterns, and styles to choose from, players can express their personal style while prioritizing their comfort and well-being on the court.
From sleek, minimalist designs to bold, vibrant prints, compression gloves add a touch of flair to any pickleball ensemble, reflecting the diverse personalities and tastes of players across the globe.
As awareness of the benefits of compression gloves continues to grow within the pickleball community, so too does their popularity.
Copper Compression Arthritis Gloves, Sigvaris Well Being Compression Gloves
Activity Specific Braces
Tailored for specific sports or activities like pickleball. They offer support while allowing some movement for better performance.
McDavid Wrist Brace for Pickleball, Bauerfeind ManuLoc Rhizo
Key Features to Consider
Comfort
The brace should fit snugly but comfortably without causing irritation. Breathable materials like neoprene or mesh are ideal for extended wear.
Adjustability
Adjustable straps allow you to customize the fit for optimal support and prevent slipping.
Support Level
The level of support needed depends on your condition’s severity. Discuss this with your healthcare professional.
Ease of Use
Look for braces that are easy to put on and take off, especially if you have dexterity limitations.
Durability
Opt for braces made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use and washing.
Style
While function is paramount, consider the style that suits your preferences and lifestyle.
Additional Tips
- Wear your brace as directed by your healthcare professional. Don’t overdo it!
- Take breaks during activities to rest your hands and wrists.
- Apply ice or heat therapy as recommended by your doctor.
- Practice hand stretches and exercises to improve flexibility and strength.
- Remember, early intervention and treatment are key to managing arthritis and carpal tunnel.
By prioritizing your well-being and seeking professional advice, you can find the perfect hand brace to alleviate pain, maximize your pickleball enjoyment, and continue playing with confidence.
Remember, your health is paramount, and the right tools can make a world of difference!
Stay well and Happy Pickleballing.
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Happy People Pickleball
Happy People Pickleball is a Pickleball and lifestyle trends blog.
Follow us for ideas and trends in Pickleball clothes, beauty, jewelry, parties, gifting, equipment, fitness, health & wellness, and travel.
After a successful professional decade in a sales and marketing career, Brigette transitioned into the role of a dedicated stay-at-home mom and a passionate community volunteer, supporting local educational foundations and non-profit organizations for the benefit of children and the community.
You can mostly catch Brigette driving her kids to school or walking her Boston Terrier, CC and always trying to play her next game of Pickleball. Connect with her on Facebook and Pinterest!
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