You Asked for It
June 2002

"I have bought a new wrist support for my right hand. I did have one before and threw it out as it was cumbersome and could not get the right size. The one I have now is good but have to get used to wearing one again and notice errors I make while on the keyboard. Or should I be wearing one?"

D. - Alberta Government Employee

The problem with splints is that they transfer the work load on to other joints, creating new problems. Initially, this begins with something as simple as errors in typing because the hand / wrist is forced to be straight. Then the wearer starts to compensate by changing the elbow or shoulder position, creating new strains. For that reason, wrist splints should be worn when resting and sleeping only. Do not wear it for work. Sleeping with it may be cumbersome initially, but will allow the joints and tendons to completely rest (as compared to the awkward postures that people allow their hands and wrists to get into while they are sleeping).

It is important to implement changes to the work station that will allow you to use your wrist in a flat and straight posture without compromising other joints. This could include (but not be limited to) adjusting your keyboard height, using a split keyboard, removing the arm rests from the chair, and transferring some of the workload to the left side by using the mouse with the left hand.

A very well written and well thought out article on the use of wrist splints was prepared by Alberta Human Resource and Employment / Workplace Health and Safety a few years ago. It can be found at http://www3.gov.ab.ca/hre/whs/publications/pdf/erg025.pdf. Remember to ice your wrist and forearms (or any other parts that are sore) 3 to 5 times per day for 20 minutes each session to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.

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