From the Guidelines
The recommended splint for carpal tunnel syndrome is a custom-made neoprene splint to be worn at night, which is a rigid rest orthosis that covers the base of the thumb and the thenar eminence but not the wrist. This type of splint is specifically designed to keep the wrist in a neutral position and alleviate pressure on the median nerve, thereby reducing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome such as pain, numbness, and tingling 1.
Key Characteristics of the Splint
- The splint should be custom-made to fit the individual's wrist and hand, allowing for optimal support and comfort.
- It should be made of neoprene, a flexible and breathable material that can provide adequate support and stability to the wrist.
- The splint should cover the base of the thumb and the thenar eminence, but not the wrist, to allow for finger movement and flexibility.
Usage and Duration
- The splint should be worn at night while sleeping, as this is when the wrist is most likely to be flexed and put pressure on the median nerve.
- Patients should be encouraged to wear the splint consistently for at least 3-4 weeks to experience significant symptom relief, but some may need to use it for several months or longer depending on the severity of their condition.
- It is essential to combine splint use with other conservative treatments, such as activity modification, ergonomic adjustments, and exercises, to maximize the benefits and potentially avoid the need for more invasive treatments like surgery 1.
Importance of Customization
- A custom-made splint is crucial to ensure a proper fit and optimal support for the wrist and hand.
- The splint should be adjusted by a trained occupational therapist to ensure that the first web can be opened and the thumb placed in opposition with the first long finger, allowing for maximum flexibility and comfort.
From the Research
Types of Splints Used for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Neutral wrist splint: This type of splint is commonly used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, as it helps to immobilize the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve 2, 3, 4.
- Volar wrist cock-up splint: This type of splint is also used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, although some studies suggest that it may not be as effective as a neutral wrist splint 5, 6.
- Dorsal lock wrist hand orthosis: This type of splint has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and neurological symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly when used for a period of three weeks 6.
- Wrist cock-up splint: This type of splint is sometimes used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, although it may not be as effective as a neutral wrist splint or dorsal lock wrist hand orthosis 5, 6.
Key Characteristics of Splints Used for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Immobilization of the wrist in a neutral position: This is a key characteristic of splints used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, as it helps to reduce pressure on the median nerve 2, 3, 4.
- Use of a splint that supports the wrist and metacarpophalangeal joints: This type of splint may be more effective than a wrist cock-up splint, particularly for patients with positive Berger test results 5, 4.
- Use of a rigid or soft orthosis: There are no statistically significant differences in the treatment results between rigid and soft orthoses, suggesting that either type can be effective 4.