Author: Mr Oliver Eaton BSc (Hons), PG.Cert – Orthopaedic Specialist
Reviewed by: Mr William Sharples BSc (Hons) – Pain Management Expert
Last Updated: September 2025
In this article, you will learn everything you need about arthritis wrist supports and the most effective ways to treat wrist arthritis, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.
Wrist arthritis is a common and often disabling condition that can make everyday tasks—like typing, gripping, or even turning a doorknob, all of which rely heavily on the use of your hands and wrists—painful and difficult.
The right wrist support, designed to address arthritis-related pain and improve function, can make a significant difference in managing pain, improving function, and preventing further joint damage. This expert-reviewed guide explains the best wrist supports for arthritis, evidence-based treatments, and how Prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic can help you regain comfort and mobility.
Why Wrist Support Matters for Arthritis
Wrist arthritis causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the wrist joint, often making it hard to perform daily activities. Arthritis is a major cause of wrist and hand pain. A wrist support or brace can:
- Stabilize the joint and limit painful movement
- Reduce inflammation and swelling
- Support weak or unstable joints
- Promote healing after a flare or injury
- Allow you to use your hand with less pain
Wrist supports should be comfortable to ensure regular use and effective pain relief.
Research shows that using a wrist support can improve grip strength, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life for people with wrist arthritis (NHS, 2023; Versus Arthritis, 2023).
Conditions that Benefit from Wrist Support
Wrist supports are a valuable solution for anyone experiencing wrist pain or discomfort from a range of common conditions. Whether you’re dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, or recovering from a wrist injury like a sprain, the right wrist support can make a significant difference in your daily comfort and mobility.
Many people with carpal tunnel syndrome experience numbness, tingling, and joint pain in the wrist and fingers. Wearing a wrist support can help relieve joint pain, reduce swelling, and provide extra support to keep the wrist in the best position for healing. Similarly, those with osteoarthritis or tendonitis often struggle with stiffness and swelling in the wrist and forearm. Compression from a quality wrist support can help reduce pain and manage these symptoms, making it easier to perform everyday tasks.
Wrist supports are also helpful for people who have suffered an injury or who regularly put strain on their wrists through work or hobbies. By offering the best support and protection, these products help manage symptoms, prevent further discomfort, and support the healing process.
It’s always advised to consult with a doctor or healthcare professional to ensure you choose the most suitable wrist support for your specific condition. They can provide expert advice on the type of support, how long to wear it, and how to maximize its efficacy for pain relief and comfort.
Customer reviews and product information can also be helpful when selecting a wrist support, giving you insight into comfort, fit, and real-world results. With the right support, you can reduce pain, improve mobility, and enjoy a better quality of life—making wrist supports a great product for anyone looking to manage wrist pain and discomfort effectively.
Types of Wrist Supports for Arthritis
- Rigid Wrist Braces: These provide maximum support and immobilization, ideal for severe pain, post-injection, or after a flare. They often have metal or plastic splints and are best for short-term use.
- Soft Wrist Supports: Made from neoprene or elastic, these offer gentle compression and warmth, reducing swelling and pain while allowing some movement.
- Thumb Spica Braces: These support both the wrist and thumb, providing thumb support for arthritis affecting the thumb joint as well as the wrist.
- Custom-Made Splints: For complex cases, a hand therapist or occupational therapist can create a splint tailored to your needs.
Selecting the correct size is crucial for comfort and effective support. Wrist supports are available in various sizes, including large and small, to ensure a proper fit and optimal functionality.
The best wrist support for arthritis depends on your symptoms, activity level, and the severity of your condition. Your healthcare provider or hand therapist can help you choose the right option.
How to Use a Wrist Support Effectively
- Always read the instructions provided with your wrist support to ensure safe and effective use.
- Wear your brace during activities that trigger pain (e.g., typing, lifting, gardening). Wrist supports should be worn to help alleviate discomfort and provide stability during these activities.
- Remove the support at night unless advised otherwise, to prevent stiffness.
- Keep the brace clean and dry, and check for skin irritation.
- Do gentle hand and wrist exercises daily to maintain flexibility and strength.
- Consult your healthcare provider if pain worsens or you notice swelling, numbness, or tingling.
Some wrist supports are adjustable or available for the left wrist, ensuring a proper fit for left-handed users.
Wrist supports are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive arthritis management plan.
Other Treatments for Wrist Arthritis
Wrist supports are just one part of managing wrist arthritis, and some treatments and supports may also benefit the arm, especially if arthritis or injury affects the broader area. A full treatment plan may include:
- Physical therapy and hand exercises
- Pain relief medications (paracetamol, NSAIDs)
- Topical anti-inflammatory creams
- Heat or cold therapy
- Activity modification and ergonomic tools
- Injections (steroid, hyaluronic acid, or regenerative options)
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat wrist arthritis. Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with wrist arthritis.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of wrist arthritis, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prolotherapy may not be suitable for everyone, and outcomes can vary. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read here.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Mary, a 60-year-old teacher, struggled with wrist arthritis pain that made writing and typing difficult. She wore a soft wrist support during her job, especially while working, and received prolotherapy. This helped her perform her teaching tasks more effectively, with less pain and improved grip strength.
Case Study 2: Tom, a 55-year-old gardener, experienced severe wrist pain and swelling. He wore a rigid brace during flare-ups while doing his gardening job and combined it with hand therapy and prolotherapy. This allowed him to return to his job with less discomfort.
Case Study 3: Linda, a 48-year-old office worker, found that a thumb spica brace, worn during her daily office job, and regular prolotherapy sessions helped her manage both wrist and thumb arthritis. This improved her ability to use a computer and perform her job and daily tasks more effectively.
FAQs
What is the best wrist support for arthritis?
The best support depends on your symptoms. Rigid braces are best for severe pain or after a flare, while soft supports are good for daily use. A hand therapist can help you choose the right one.
Can I wear a wrist brace all day?
You can wear a brace during activities that cause pain, but it’s best to remove it at night and do regular hand exercises to prevent stiffness.
Will a wrist support cure my arthritis?
No, but it can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and protect the joint. It should be used alongside other treatments for best results.
Is prolotherapy safe for wrist arthritis?
Prolotherapy is considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. It is minimally invasive and has a low risk of complications.
When should I see a doctor?
If you have severe pain, swelling, numbness, or cannot use your hand, or if symptoms persist despite self-care, consult a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Wrist arthritis can be frustrating, but with the right support, exercises, and a comprehensive treatment plan—including innovative options like prolotherapy—you can achieve lasting relief and return to your daily activities.
Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
Don’t let wrist arthritis control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.
Get in Touch
Phone: +441234380345
Email: info@prohealthclinic.co.uk
Our Clinic Locations
London: 104 Harley Street, Marylebone, W1G 7JD
Manchester: The Hadley Clinic, 64 Bridge Street, M3 3BN
Bedford: The Village Medical Centre, Kingswood Way, MK40 4GH
All clinics offer the same award-winning prolotherapy treatment with convenient appointment times, including evenings and weekends.
Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Oliver Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating wrist arthritis, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with wrist arthritis and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He first trained in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy and continued on to complete further training with the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Mr Eaton developed his treatment and examination approach through the process of treating his own chronic symptoms and is committed to making sure his patients experience the same life-changing effects his treatments had on him.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
Mr Eaton’s expertise has been featured in many national news and media publications, including The Telegraph, The Daily Mail, The Daily Express, Women’s Health Magazine, and The Scotsman.
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-eaton-4338225b/
References
- NHS. (2023). Osteoarthritis
- Versus Arthritis. (2023). Wrist Pain
- Arthritis Foundation. (2023). Osteoarthritis
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.