Splinting can often provide relief for mild to moderate cases of carpal tunnel syndrome and can be useful both in acute treatment and in some cases, in longer-term treatment. A volar splint should be placed in a neutral position because flexion and extension of the wrist increases intracanal pressure. Restricting wrist motion eliminates the repetitive movement and tension overload in the carpal tunnel. This gives the tendon sheaths an opportunity to heal, reducing swelling, which then may decrease the pressure on the median nerve.
Studies comparing nighttime splinting to continuous splinting have not revealed a clear difference in terms of efficacy and continuous splinting may interfere with work or lifestyle activities, so patient preference and compliance will dictate usage patterns. Splinting is usually tried for a period of four to six weeks. After such time if the patient has not experienced symptom relief further use is unlikely to be helpful and other treatment options need to be considered.
A prefabricated, neutral wrist splint.
Image Source: Victoria Squissato
Role of the Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists often use wrist splinting as a form of treatment. Splints may be pre-fabricated or customt-fit. Prefabricated splints are sold in health care supply stores and are an inexpensive option for clients. Prefabricated splints may be used but the fit may not be precise enough for all individuals. In this case, a custom fit splint is required. An occupational therapist will fabricate a custom-fit splint by molding thermoplastic material to the client's hand, wrist and forearm. They ensure that the splint is the correct size, that the patient is properly instructed on appropriate use of the splint, and that follow-up care is available if the splint is either ineffective or uncomfortable.
Studies comparing nighttime splinting to continuous splinting have not revealed a clear difference in terms of efficacy and continuous splinting may interfere with work or lifestyle activities, so patient preference and compliance will dictate usage patterns. Splinting is usually tried for a period of four to six weeks. After such time if the patient has not experienced symptom relief further use is unlikely to be helpful and other treatment options need to be considered.
A prefabricated, neutral wrist splint.
Image Source: Victoria Squissato
Role of the Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists often use wrist splinting as a form of treatment. Splints may be pre-fabricated or customt-fit. Prefabricated splints are sold in health care supply stores and are an inexpensive option for clients. Prefabricated splints may be used but the fit may not be precise enough for all individuals. In this case, a custom fit splint is required. An occupational therapist will fabricate a custom-fit splint by molding thermoplastic material to the client's hand, wrist and forearm. They ensure that the splint is the correct size, that the patient is properly instructed on appropriate use of the splint, and that follow-up care is available if the splint is either ineffective or uncomfortable.