The wrist connects the hand with the forearm and is a very complex area of the body made up of eight small bones (carpals), the Carpal tunnel (containing tendons and nerves) and a ligament.
It is greatly used in many sports, and especially in racquet sports such as tennis, badminton, squash and table tennis. The wrist allows for rotation, power and accuracy so it is vital to have strong and agile wrists for high performance and success in these sports.
Common wrist injuries
As the wrist is such an integral part of playing racquet sports, injuries are common in players at all levels. We have regularly seen elite tennis players ruled out of major tournaments – and the warmer summer months and increased activity on the courts mean that wrist aches and pains are more common in all players at this time of the year.
Minor wrist injuries are commonly caused simply from the repetitive motions of racquet sports, with the overuse of muscles and tendons that can inflame the wrist tissue.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is another common racquet sports injury, especially in badminton players due to the repetitive overhead movements required. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the narrowing of the space through which the median nerve in the wrist passes.
Racquet sport players can also suffer wrist sprains, torn ligaments and serious injuries such as broken bones as a result of a fall.
Symptoms of a wrist injury
Different wrist injuries will have different symptoms, but symptoms will often include limited mobility, inflammation, pain, stiffness and soreness around the muscle.
A wrist sprain will result in swelling and bruising as well as a sudden burning pain, while the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include a numbness in your fingers as well as hand weakness and a pain that can move up your arm to your elbow.
Best Sport Wrist Supports
Although a severely strained wrist or a serious injury may require surgery and extensive treatment, the use of a good quality sports wrist support can help in the process of recovery from a wrist injury.
LP’s range of quality wrist supports, braces and splints can help to limit the movement of the wrist joint during activity as well as providing support.
LP Extreme Wrist Support
LP Extreme Wrist Support / 753CA - £10.99
For minor injuries and support for weak wrists, the LP Extreme Wrist Support (product code 753CA) is an ideal solution. It helps to relieve pain by providing mild pressure to the wrist, and also provides important stabilisation during activity.
The innovative Coolprene material helps to keep the skin dry and comfortable, so this support is ideal for longer workouts and extensive periods of exercise.
This support can easily be adjusted for correct compression so it ensures a comfortable fit for all wrist sizes.
Neoprene Wrist Support
LP Neoprene Wrist Support / 703 - £9.50
LP also have wrist supports available in neoprene, which is the ultimate material for compression and heat retention.
The LP Neoprene Wrist Support (product code 703) applies mild pressure to an injured wrist while also providing firm support around the weakened area.
The neoprene material helps to warm the wrist and increase blood circulation, and this support will also help to protect from further injuries.
This support is suitable for all sports but is especially suitable for tennis players, weightlifters and cyclists.
Buy the LP Neoprene Wrist Support
Wrist and Thumb Supports
LP Wrist and Thumb Support / 763 - £10.99
Some LP wrist supports also cover the thumb, and the LP Wrist and Thumb Support (product code 763) features an aluminium splint for partial immobilisation of the thumb.
The palm remains free to allow movement of the fingers, while the metal splint limits the motion of the thumb and also helps to prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
This support is made from the highest grade closed cell neoprene so it supports weak wrists and retains body heat to increase blood circulation.
Buy the LP Wrist and Thumb Support
Wrist Splint for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
LP Wrist Splint / 725 - £13.99
If you are suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, then the LP Wrist Splint (product code 725) is one of the supports that is recommended. The support includes a spoon stay for stabilisation, this rests underneath the wrists and relieves strain on the tendons. This means it can be worn during the day and also for sleeping at night.
The stay can be removed as healing progresses, providing customised treatment and the support is available in all sizes from Extra Small to Extra Large for both wrists.
These are just a selection of the sports wrist supports, braces and splints that LP provides to accommodate numerous variations of injuries. A good quality support will greatly aid your recovery and help you get back into action much faster, while providing comfort and relieving pain.