Bandage on the wrist after a fracture. Orthosis for the wrist joint: types, indications, purchase rules. Bandages made of elastic materials

Of all hand injuries, injuries wrist joint observed most often. To reduce the risk of injury, prevent the development of wrist diseases, and also slow down the progression of existing pathologies, it is recommended to use special orthoses, which come in 3 degrees of fixation. And you need to know which one to choose.

The wrist joint connects the human hand to the forearm. It is subject to enormous loads every day, so it is susceptible to various types of degenerative pathologies and injuries. And if there is a possibility of damage to it, then you should take care of your health and ensure reliable fixation and protection of the wrist. For this purpose, an orthosis for the wrist joint has been developed, which will not only reduce the risk of injury and development various diseases joint, and will also help to recover faster after a fracture or surgical treatment, stop signs of inflammation.

The difference between an orthosis and other orthopedic products

To understand why an orthosis is needed, you first need to understand what it is and how it differs from other orthopedic products.

A bandage is a knitted product that fits tightly to a joint and ensures its stability. You can also find the word support, which comes from the English “support” - support. It also means a bandage. Such orthopedic products can be equipped with silicone inserts, textile fasteners, and belts that allow them to be secured to the body. They are recommended to be worn to reduce the risk of joint damage and for minor injuries.

Orthosis is understood as more complex designs, combining fabric and more rigid fixing elements, for example, stiffeners, hinges, plastic inserts. They are prescribed after surgical treatment, after a fracture, for any conditions when any movement of the hand is undesirable. Such devices are also called braces, from brace, which means fastening.

However, in practice it is often difficult to distinguish one device from another, since they may have different elements in their design.

Any orthopedic product can be called a fixator.

A splint is a type of orthosis, but it does not have hinges. Sometimes splint and orthosis are used as synonyms.

Sometimes an orthosis is confused with a splint, which is a long plaster or plastic strip. It is usually prescribed for fractures for the purpose of immobilization.

Classification of orthoses

Depending on the degree of fixation, the wrist cut is:

soft;
semi-rigid;
tough.

Soft orthosis

They are made from breathable elastic fabrics and, as a rule, they are used with calipers or sports bands. Such products do not reduce the range of motion of the wrist and fingers, and at the same time reduces excessive stress on the joint.

In addition, a bandage on the wrist joint may be prescribed if:

wrist hypermobility;
carpal tunnel syndrome;
tendonitis, arthrosis, arthritis;
the last stage of rehabilitation after surgical treatment.

Depending on the materials from which such a wrist brace is made, it can have a massaging and warming effect.

A wrist support can be in the form of a wrist band, which protects only the wrist joint, but also covers part of the forearm, palm and joint thumb.

Important! A soft orthosis is more comfortable than an elastic bandage on the wrist, since it does not need to be adjusted during movement. When the bandage is chosen correctly, it cannot cause the progression of the pathology, unlike a bandage, which, if you squeeze the affected areas, can worsen the course of the disease.

Semi-rigid orthoses

They are also made from elastic fabrics into which a metal or plastic frame is sewn. Such orthopedic products allow you to fix the hand in an anatomical position, reduce the load on it and slightly limit the mobility of the joint.

They are prescribed:

after surgical treatment, when there is no point in wearing a cruel fixator;
after removing a cast or a rigid orthosis;
for inflammatory, degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the joints of severe and moderate severity;
for injuries of the tendon-ligament apparatus of moderate severity;
for paralysis and paresis

Such designs help normalize hand function and prevent the development of contracture. They do not come in the form of a wristband; as a rule, they cover the lower third of the forearm, part of the hand.

Rigid orthoses

The rigid wrist fixator has a plastic or metal frame; it is attached to the hand using straps that allow you to adjust the tightness of the orthopedic structure. Also, such models can be equipped with hinges that adjust the degree of fixation.

Rigid orthoses are usually prescribed when it is necessary to completely fix a joint or leave a small range of motion in it.

They are prescribed if:

fracture of the wrist or finger joints;
ligament rupture and serious muscle damage;
limitation of passive hand movements;
period after major surgery.

A rigid orthosis has a number of advantages over a cast:

it is light in weight;
it is easy to care for, it can be removed when necessary, for example, for carrying out medical manipulations or performing hygiene procedures;
reduces rehabilitation period and does not cause complications that can be observed when using a plaster cast.

Attention! The degree of fixation should only be determined by a doctor, since in some conditions complete immobility of the hand is required, in other pathologies, on the contrary, this is contraindicated and can cause its progression.

Purpose of orthoses

Semi-rigid and rigid clamps prevent the appearance of contracture when the arm cannot bend or straighten correctly.
Typically, most orthoses perform a number of functions simultaneously, for example, reducing the load and restoring mobility. Also, wrist restraints are divided into the following types depending on their purpose:

preventive, they are recommended to be used during active rest, playing sports, fitness, any type of activity in which there is a constant load on the wrist, as well as when initial stage arthrosis;
a therapeutic wrist joint brace will be prescribed for some time after surgery and for injuries;
permanent models are prescribed when the shape and function of the wrist are completely lost.

athletes;
representatives of certain professions: pianists, copywriters, loaders, drivers;
computer game lovers;
mothers who constantly have to carry their children in their arms.

Rules for choosing a wrist orthosis

The selection of a semi-rigid or rigid orthosis, depending on the pathology that requires wrist fixation, should be carried out by a specialist:

traumatologist;
orthopedist;
neurologist;
rheumatologist.

Buying such a brace on your own can cause serious complications, including complete loss of wrist function.

It is also advisable to discuss whether a soft bandage is needed for the wrist joint with a doctor, who will advise which model is best to choose.

Moreover, any fixative has a number of contraindications, for example, it cannot be used for some dermatological diseases, pathologies of blood vessels.

When choosing a product, you should pay attention to the following:

when purchasing, you need to take into account the cost and the manufacturing company; if the model is expensive, this does not mean at all that it is of high quality, purchase better clamps well-known brands that are produced by companies that have been on the market for many years, such as Orlett;
the material from which the orthosis is made must be natural, hypoallergenic, not lose its qualities after washing, it is also worth paying attention to whether it allows moisture and air to pass through;
you also need to remember that it is not always possible to hide a bandage under clothes, so you need to choose one that will look beautiful on your hands, it is better not to take models in light shades, as they quickly get dirty;
you need to select a wrist joint fixator based on the girth of the wrist; if it covers the palm, then it is also worth measuring the width of the palm; when the model provides for finger fixation or is made in the form of a glove, then the length of the fingers; you also need to remember that the size range of different manufacturers may vary differ;
Before purchasing a bandage, you must try it on to see if it is tight, chafing, or falling off;
check all fixing elements.

Popular manufacturing companies and prices

For several years, the leader in the production of wrist cuts has been the German company Medi. Among its models you can find fixing and preventive orthoses, splints for the wrist joint and fingers.

The Otto Bock company offers both adult and children's models. Some fasteners use a thread with silver, which has antimicrobial effect and preventing reproduction pathogenic microorganisms on the skin.

Budget models are available from Oppo, which has a wide range of wrist and thumb clips.

Orlett has wide choose models for children, most of which are universal and are available in 3 sizes: S, M, L. Individual orthoses have compression and massage effects.

You can buy cuts in an online store, pharmacy, special orthopedic salons. You should not buy them from persons who cannot provide a quality certificate for their products.

Prices for orthopedic products may vary:

Firm	Prices
Otto Bock	From 900 rub. up to 8 thousand rubles.
Oppo	From 490 rub.
Orlett	From 640 rub.

A cut on the wrist, if chosen correctly, can reduce the risk of damage to the joint and prevent the progression of existing pathologies.

The wrist joint is formed so that we can use our hands. He bends and unbends it, with his help the hand makes a wide variety of movements. To protect joints from injuries and during rehabilitation after them, you need to use an orthosis or wrist bandage. They fix the joints in the position required by physiology.

Types of orthoses for wrist joints

They vary in hardness. There are products that provide easy fixation; in addition, they massage and warm the joint. They are required for the prevention of arthrosis, arthritis and other diseases, as well as in inflammatory processes. In traumatology, an orthopedic bandage splint is also used for the wrist joint. It can be used to carry out both preventive and conventional treatment for partial damage ligaments, subluxations and bruises. This product also becomes a joint protector when sports training. A wrist orthosis will relieve pain and inflammation and reduce the load on the joints.
But with severe damage, more serious fixation is required. After surgery, it is worth using a semi-rigid wrist orthosis. Buying an orthosis for the wrist joint in Moscow is necessary to fix both the joint itself and 2-4 fingers or thumb. This product can be worn when severe bruises, for joint ruptures, for sprained ligaments. You can use it during rehabilitation after a fracture, if paresis is detected or there is paralysis of the arms.

How to choose a semi-rigid or soft wrist orthosis at a competitive price in the Moscow region?

On the website of our online store “site” there is a significant assortment of this product. After consulting with a doctor, choose an orthosis of the required rigidity and size, familiarize yourself with its parameters and price, then place an order with us, and we will provide such a service as delivery throughout Russia.
To obtain an orthosis with rigid fixation, rigid splints are added to its base. Rigid fixation allows the joint to be completely immobilized. A rigid orthosis should be worn almost immediately after operations, after fractures, if a bone crack is detected or there are ligament ruptures. It should also be worn after the cast has been removed. It is also used instead of gypsum, if its rigidity is considered sufficient.

A bandage for fixing the wrist and metacarpophalangeal joints and fingers is called an orthosis. The device is used for diseases and injuries of the anatomical structures of the hand and forearm. The wrist joint has complex structure, allowing a person to perform precise movements with the hand and fingers to carry out his professional and everyday activities.

It was the opposable thumb that allowed man to quickly evolve and achieve technological progress. At the same time, under intense functional load, the hands are subject to inflammatory, dystrophic, and traumatic effects, which reduces performance and limits the ability to self-care, and worsens the quality of life. For the treatment and prevention of diseases and damage to the joints of the hand, an orthosis for the wrist joint was created.

Types of orthoses

Bandages for the wrist joint differ in the degree of rigidity and the ability to fix certain joints of the hand. The use of an orthosis and its type is determined by a doctor: therapist, surgeon, rheumatologist, traumatologist after a diagnostic examination, depending on the specifics of the pathological process.

Devices are released different sizes(S, M, L, XL) for children and adults.

Children's bandages have their own size chart, are distinguished by bright colors and interesting designs that are attractive to the child. All types of orthoses have anatomical shape, contribute to the subsidence of inflammation, normalize tissue regeneration processes, prevent the formation of contractures upper limbs.

Soft wrist orthosis

The product is made of elastic hypoallergenic material that allows the skin to “breathe” thanks to the use of high-tech fabrics. The device does not hinder the physiological movements of the hand and fingers, limiting maximum flexion and extension in the joints, and rotation of the hand. The bandage not only provides easy fixation, but also has a massage and warming effect at the site of application.

A soft orthosis is prescribed in the following cases:

rehabilitation period after a hand injury accompanied by inflammatory processes joints, tendons, ligaments;
late postoperative period after surgical interventions on the anatomical structures of the hand;
degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the wrist and metacarpophalangeal joint (arthrosis);
inflammatory diseases wrist joint, adjacent muscles and ligaments of the forearm or hand (arthritis, tendovaginitis, myositis);
tunnel syndrome (compression of the median nerve);
rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile (children's) form;
instability in the wrist joint.

A special type of soft orthoses are considered products for athletes, who use them to prevent injuries during training and competitions, as well as during the rehabilitation period after injury to the hands.

Semi-rigid wrist orthosis

The device is made of comfortable elastic material that does not cause skin irritation. To create rigidity, inserts made of soft plastic or flexible metal are sewn into the fabric, which are placed along the palm surface of the product. The bandage is designed for moderate fixation of the wrist joint and fingers. It limits movement and maintains the limb in a physiological position.

Soft orthosis in the form of a wristband

A semi-rigid wrist orthosis is prescribed in the following cases:

early postoperative period at surgical interventions on the joints, ligaments, tendons of the hand and in the lower third of the forearm;
fixation of the limb in a physiological position after removing the plaster cast;
paralysis and paresis of the arms after strokes;
ligament rupture and sprain;
bruises of the hands;
household and professional tendon sprains.

A semi-rigid bandage is considered an orthopedic product - it prevents the formation of contractures of the hand joints and normalizes the functioning of the upper limbs.

Rigid wrist orthosis

The bandage is made of “breathable” material, reinforced with a dense plastic frame or metal strips on the palm and side surfaces of the product. To secure the device to the hand, there are straps that allow you to change the degree of pressure on the hand. The bandage is designed for rigid fixation of the wrist joint and fingers, completely eliminating movement in the hand.

A rigid wrist orthosis is prescribed in the following cases:

early postoperative period during surgical manipulations on the hand as a result of complex anatomical disorders(fractures, damage to ligaments and tendons);
contractures of the hand after inflammatory, degenerative, neurological diseases(arthrosis, late stage rheumatoid arthritis, consequences of strokes and brain injuries);
limb immobilization for fractures, ligament and tendon ruptures, muscle damage.

Semi-rigid hand orthosis

The use of a rigid device when the integrity of the bones and other anatomical structures of the hand is damaged is considered a more physiological method of fixation, does not cause complications, shortens the rehabilitation period, and helps maintain normal motor activity of the upper limb.

Reviews from patients and doctors about the wrist orthosis

IN modern medicine orthoses are widely used in both therapeutic and surgical practice. The effectiveness of fixing bandages in the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system is reflected in positive reviews of the products among patients and doctors.

Nikolai Alexandrovich, coach, 30 years old

I practice martial arts professionally, train children's and adult groups in sports club. During training and competitions I use a soft Orlett coolmax bandage, the so-called wristband, which secures the wrist well, prevents sprain of the wrist joint, and warms the muscles in the area of application well. The product is made of high-tech material that has all the advantages of cotton, but is more durable and durable. Thanks to this, the bandage does not cause skin irritation, removes moisture well, and is pleasant to the body. The price of the orthosis is quite consistent with the quality and functionality, ranging from 700-900 rubles.

Marina Yurievna, housewife, 24 years old

I encountered wearing an Orlett orthosis during treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Being the mother of a three-year-old child, she suffered from rubella together with him. After recovery, she began to notice swelling in her hands, numbness in her fingers, and periodically experienced shooting pains in her hands. After making the diagnosis, the doctor prescribed wearing a bandage, which securely fixed the hand in the wrist joint, thereby reducing pain and preventing further spread of inflammation.

Rigid orthosis with application to the forearm, wrist and metacarpophalangeal joint

The device turned out to be comfortable to wear, had a memory effect (memorizing the shape of the hand after the first use), and had good breathability and moisture-repellent properties. Buying an orthosis cost me about 1,500 rubles, the price fully corresponds to the quality of the product.

Nikolai Petrovich, traumatologist, 45 years old

I recommend wearing an orthosis to my patients in cases of sprained ligaments, tendon ruptures, and even uncomplicated fractures of small bones of the upper limb. Bandages are a good alternative to a plaster cast because they have an anatomical shape, have the ability to remove moisture from the surface of the arm, and allow the skin under the orthosis to “breathe.” Such devices have proven themselves when it is necessary to fix a limb in the wrist joint after operations and injuries. The recovery period in such cases is significantly reduced, and the possibility of complications is minimized. Orlett bandages have proven themselves well, the price of which ranges from 700-3000 rubles, depending on the intended purpose.

Fixators for the wrist joint are widely used as a treatment for diseases and injuries of the anatomical structures of the hands. Devices can be used as effective prophylactic with intense loads on the distal parts of the upper limbs. Thanks to the use of bandages, the possibility of developing joint contractures is reduced, the duration of the therapeutic course of treatment is reduced, the rehabilitation period after operations and injuries is shortened, and the hands are fully functional.

There are models that focus only on a large area, but there are also those that focus on only one finger. Orthoses also differ from each other varying degrees commits:

Light stiffness.

Such models are used for minor injuries of the wrist joint. Orthopedic product minimizes painful sensations, provides support during strong reboots. The user of the structure can independently adjust the degree of rigidity. Due to their properties, soft-fix bandages are very popular among athletes.

Medium hardness.

Fully support the brush correct position. Such models are often used for arthrosis and arthritis. The products also provide significant support for tendon injuries and inflammatory processes.

Strong rigidity.

Such products firmly fix the joint and fingers in one position. Orthoses are also used after operations on the wrist joint - during the period of recovery and recovery of the patient.

How to choose a wrist brace and brace

For correct selection it is recommended to consult a doctor who will help determine the degree of rigidity of the product individually for each patient. With more serious illnesses Rigid fixation orthoses are used. If the injuries are minor, then bandages with light or semi-rigid fixation are suitable.

To choose a bandage yourself, you need to use the product size chart. It is important to note that products for the right and left hands may differ!

The wrist is one of the most fragile joints in the entire musculoskeletal system, and therefore attention to it must be appropriate. In order to prevent injuries and treat certain diseases, it is advisable to use an orthosis on the wrist joint. What types of bandages exist for this area and in what cases can they be useful?

There are a great many cases when you may need the help of an orthopedic device for the wrist joint. Most often it is prescribed for the following conditions and situations. At hereditary predisposition to diseases of the musculoskeletal system, especially if relatives had problems in the hand area.

In the presence of many joint diseases - tendinitis, polyarthritis, tendon inflammation, osteoarthritis, paresis, paralysis. In addition, a wrist brace may be indicated for the following groups of people:

With professional loads on this area of the upper limbs. We are primarily talking about athletes - dancers, basketball players, weightlifters, tennis players, skiers, gymnasts. Constant load Persons whose work is computer-related also receive a joint allowance. Accountants, graphic designers, and typists have one hand (usually the right) constantly resting on the computer mouse. The muscles in this area are compressed, and they remain in this state for several hours. By the way, unlike athletes, this group of people have problems only on one side (usually the right), and therefore the orthosis is worn only on right hand. Finally, musicians, seamstresses, milkmaids, drivers and a number of other specialists and even young mothers, who, due to their new role, often have to lift the baby, with the load (the weight of the baby) on the right or left hand constantly growing.
During the rehabilitation period. After injuries, it is necessary to maintain the parts of the joint in a stable condition, and best assistant in this case is a wrist brace. It will help to properly distribute the load and thereby restore this area faster. In addition, such support will reduce the likelihood of similar injuries in the future.

Types of bandages

Almost all of them should include fixation of not only the wrist itself, but also the thumb, as well as part of the palm. Only thumb orthoses can properly support the joint. They differ in many ways: and appearance, and by function.

Elastic

Most often, such a wrist bandage is used by athletes, which is why such a brace is sometimes called a sports brace. They can be different in shape - look like a bandage or a cut-off glove. The main task of such a bandage is to provide compression on the wrist, but it does not limit the mobility of the joint, but only slightly limits the range of motion and prevents injuries.

There are a great variety of professional elastic wrist braces. Most often they look like cut-off gloves, but unlike ordinary ones, they use special fabric, creating decompression and thereby preventing dislocations, ruptures and sprains

Such orthoses can be seen on weightlifters when athletes perform exercises with lifting a barbell. These devices can prevent sprains or sprains. Among the most popular models is T 8301. Made from neoprene, it maintains the anatomy of the joint in proper condition, and thanks to the latest material the skin will not sweat.

Hard

Most often, the design is based on plastic, which means that such a wrist joint lock completely immobilizes the wrist. In the vast majority of cases, it is used as a replacement for the traditional figure-eight plaster cast. If we compare plaster and a rigid orthosis, then plaster has many disadvantages, the main one of which is the inability to get it wet, but it is very difficult for the patient to wash himself while keeping the plaster dry.

Besides, gypsum bandage very heavy, while plastic weighs several times less. Finally, the plastic wrist brace is easy to remove, for example when visiting a specialist or for x-rays. But there are some disadvantages to a plastic rigid orthosis. So, it cannot (or not all models have such an opportunity) to be adjusted to the size and shape of the patient.

A plaster cast can be applied to a patient of any age, regardless of the parameters of the hand. But there are some models in which it is possible to tighten or, conversely, loosen individual parts of the wrist in order to best fit the device to the patient’s arm. Popular splinting brands that produce orthoses in this group include Orlett and Orto.

Combined

As the name implies, their modification involves the use of both hard and soft elastic elements. Most often, models are made from elastic bandages, but some areas have hard parts inserted into them for protection. Thanks to the fastening system that almost all models have, you can “customize” the device for yourself, that is, increase or decrease the compression of the splint on certain areas of the wrist.

Are there any contraindications?

In general, such devices have almost no contraindications, but in some cases you should refuse to wear an orthosis:

malignant neoplasms in the wearing area (friction will intensify pathological processes);
foci of inflammation skin diseases in the wrist area;
individual intolerance to the bandage material.

And of course, if the joint is destroyed to such an extent that it can only be restored with prosthetics, then no amount of wearing an orthosis will help it.

How to choose the right one

It is very difficult to choose a wrist brace yourself, because different situations different types are used. In addition, they are selected according to the size of the product, which should be indicated on the packaging.

Standard sizes are suitable for the following wrist circumferences:

XS – from 10 to 13 cm;
S - from 13 to 15 cm;
M – from 15 to 18 cm;
L – from 18 to 21 cm;
XL – from 21 to 23 cm.

A pharmacist at a pharmacy can also take measurements, but it is better to clarify these parameters with the attending physician, who understands this much more professionally. Some manufacturers also have separate children's models. The doctor also selects the type of construction needed by the patient. Selecting the wrong type of brace can lead to loss of the ability to rotate the arm normally at the wrist.

This can cause complications, including joint conditions where it will be difficult to restore lost mobility to the joint. If you have relatives or friends who have already used orthoses for the wrist joint, then you can use their reviews about different models and devices. You shouldn’t exclude the opinions of people on the Internet. Finally, having selected the orthosis models that are most suitable for all characteristics, you can begin making your choice.

It will be better if the patient can first put on the orthosis, thereby testing it. Perhaps in this way it is possible to weed out models whose wearing brings significant discomfort

It is advisable to go to a pharmacy or specialty store to make a purchase, rather than ordering the product online. You can only directly ask to try on a bandage with finger fixation and personally make a choice based on your preferences, although in online stores many models are much cheaper. On average, an elastic bandage will cost the patient from 1,000 to 4,000 rubles, a semi-rigid brace – from 1,000 to 11,000 rubles, and a rigid orthosis – from 2,000 to 15,000 rubles.

The brand also plays a significant role, because famous manufacturers They don’t just produce a device to support the wrist, but test it before releasing it for sale. As for the country of origin, there is a special role here this sign does not play. Nowadays, good products are produced not only on the foreign, but also on the domestic market.

How to wear it correctly

The wearing mode is determined by the doctor. If the device is prescribed immediately after an injury as a means of rehabilitation, then such an orthosis must be worn almost constantly, occasionally taking it off. hygiene procedures. A little later, the specialist will give recommendations on periodically removing the bandage.

In the later stages of recovery, you should try to stop wearing the orthosis as often as possible. If a person regularly plays sports or professional activity implies a load on the wrist, the bandage should be put on immediately before training or work, and immediately after it should be removed.

Since elastic bandages are used in this case, it is also impossible to treat them irresponsibly. We are talking about a permanent, so-called preventive wearing orthosis. Such a constant mode of using a bandage is unacceptable, since it puts excessive compression on the muscles, soft fabrics And bone structures, thereby forming atrophy of muscle tissue.