Can You Sleep With a Wrist Brace on?
Wrist pain is very common among people around the world. It can be due to various conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), tendonitis, or repetitive strain. Wrist pain is noticed mostly among many sports players, with 25% of sports-related injuries involving the hand or wrist. [1]
The pain can get so intense, affecting daily life activities and badly impacting the quality of sleep. Poor sleeping habits exacerbate the symptoms, resulting in more discomfort and sleeplessness.
Fortunately, wrist braces have proven to be an effective solution against wrist pain and help manage the symptoms. But does it support the wrist at night? Can you sleep with a wrist brace on? Let’s find that out.
Why Can You Wear Wrist Braces While Sleeping?
Should you sleep with a wrist brace on? This is a good idea for those who suffer from wrist pain or injury. Here’s why you should consider wearing it at night:
- Reduce Nighttime Symptoms
Some people question, “Can you sleep with a wrist brace on?” Wrist braces can provide support for the wrist, reducing the frequency of waking up at night due to wrist pain or discomfort, thereby improving sleep quality.
For people with carpal tunnel syndrome, tenosynovitis, or other wrist pain, wrist braces can also keep the wrist in the appropriate position at night to reduce discomfort.
- Limit Wrist Movement
Some people like to move their bodies while sleeping, causing their wrists to be in an uncomfortable position. This improper posture may exacerbate joint tension and cause intense pain. In severe cases, improper posture may also lead to secondary wrist injuries.
Can you sleep with a wrist brace on? Wearing wrist braces can promote wrist alignment, prevent wrist movement throughout the night, and alleviate symptoms.
- Promote Blood Circulation
When the muscles of the wrist and arm are in a tense state, it can affect blood flow, leading to poor local blood circulation and causing numbness, pain, and other discomfort symptoms in the wrists.
Adjustable wrist braces can promote blood circulation and improve wound symptoms by compressing the blood vessels around the wrist. Better blood flow speeds up the healing process during sleep.
When to Wear a Wrist Brace While Sleeping?
Generally, if the wound is swollen and needs to be fixed, patients can wear wrist braces. The following are common conditions:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve compression syndrome that causes tingling pain, numbness, and limited movement in the hand and wrist. The condition is caused by pressure on your median nerve, affecting the palm side of the thumb.
You can improve this condition by wearing a left wrist brace at night to prevent your wrist from bending and stretching. With that, you can get a good night's sleep and reduce discomfort.
- Wrist Fracture
In order to protect the fracture site and prevent further damage or displacement, it is usually necessary to wear a fixed brace or cast. In the later stages of recovery, if patients are concerned about the displacement or compression of the fracture site, they can continue to wear wrist guards while sleeping.
In severe conditions, it is recommended to consult a doctor about the duration of wearing wrist braces to avoid stiffness.
- Tendon Injuries
One common tendon injury is tendonitis, during which the wrist’s tendons become inflamed. This disease is common in people who type or do repetitive tasks with their hands. For example, moms who need to pick up their babies are likely to suffer from tendonitis.
Wearing a left wrist brace at night can support the injured area and limit movement. This allows the tendons to heal and rest. The wrist is kept in optimal alignment, which reduces pressure on the tendons.
How to Wear Wrist Braces Correctly During Sleep?
Now, you know the answer to the question, “Should you wear a wrist brace to bed?” There are a few tips to wear to avoid any bad experiences. Here’s what you should focus on:
- Choose the Appropriate Wrist Brace
For a smooth recovery and ease of pain, right-sized wrist braces are needed that fit your wrists snugly but not too tight. At the same time, soft, comfortable, and breathable materials are better for reducing allergies and discomfort. You can choose between cotton and neoprene, as they are both very comfortable.
- Cleaning and Preparation
Before wearing the adjustable wrist braces, clean your wrist and wrist braces to ensure that there is no sweat, dirt, or makeup residue. Check if the wrist brace is damaged or if there are any hard objects inside to avoid discomfort or injury.
- Wear Wrist Braces
A good wrist brace supports the wrist in the correct position. If it bends forward or backward, that’s not the right fit and can be extremely uncomfortable. You need to adjust the straps so that they support your wrists and fit snugly. If it’s too tight, you didn’t secure it right.
- Precautions During Sleep
When suffering from wrist injuries, try to avoid placing your hands under your body or head while sleeping. For example, avoid sleeping on one side of the injured arm. Moreover, you can also raise your arms with a pillow, which can promote blood circulation and help reduce swelling and pain.
- Tips After Waking Up
After waking up, it’s better to remove the wrist brace to allow the wrist to relax. Pay attention to check for any swelling, pain, or numbness in the wrist. If you experience persistent discomfort after wearing a wrist brace, you can consult a doctor or medical professional for help.
Precautions to Avoid Worsening Wrist Pain
If you already suffer from wrist pain, early intervention is crucial before the condition worsens. Here are the measures you can take:
- Rest and Relax
When you feel muscle fatigue or pain, you should stop all activities that may worsen the symptoms and give your wrist sufficient rest. For instance, when typing, take breaks at regular intervals to prevent straining your wrists.
- Appropriate Sleeping Posture
While wearing a wrist brace at night is super helpful, you also need to consider how you position your hands and wrists. Avoid bending your wrist in an awkward position. The best position is to sleep on your back to avoid getting over your hand during sleep.
- Avoid Repetitive Actions
Repetitive actions, especially those involving complex operations, may lead to tendinitis or other wrist problems. Try to switch between different types of activities and take regular breaks to reduce pressure on your wrist. For example, you can use voice input instead of typing.
- Keep Your Hands Warm
Keeping your hands warm helps injured soft tissues heal, which can increase blood flow and benefit stiff and tired muscles.
- Apply Appropriate Cold or Hot Compresses
In the early stages of a wrist injury or inflammation, using a cold compress helps reduce swelling and pain. A cold compress is usually used within the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury occurs.
For persistent pain or muscle tension, a hot compress can help relax muscles and promote blood circulation. A hot compress is usually used in the later stages of an injury.
Select the Right Wrist Braces
Now, you know the answer to, “Can you sleep with a wrist brace on.” It’s time to choose a good wrist brace for sprains or relieving pain.
Fivali offers wrist braces in different materials, with semi-rigid and flexible wrist guards to choose from. Our product is made of breathable and comfortable fabric to prevent your palms from getting allergic due to friction.
Semi-rigid wrist braces can provide effective support and protect the wrist from external impacts and injuries. The compression effect of flexible wrist braces helps promote blood circulation and alleviate hand fatigue and swelling. Choosing the correct wrist brace based on different types of wrist injuries can assist in the treatment process.
Can you sleep with a wrist brace on? Wrist braces are good solutions for many wrist conditions, including tendonitis, CTS, fractures, and other injuries. Using a wrist brace at night helps heal the injury faster and allows you to have the most comfortable sleep at night.
Visit Fivali’s website to explore more options that suit your symptoms!
