A wrist splint is a brace that looks like a fingerless glove. It stabilizes the wrist in a straight and sometimes slightly bent-back position. A wrist splint can be worn to support the wrist while holding it firm and still (immobilizing it).

A good wrist splint should:

• Be comfortable, washable, durable, and easy to remove.
• Keep the wrist in a neutral (straight) position. The wrist is generally in a neutral position when the person is holding a glass of water, with the thumb in line with the forearm.
• Restrict wrist movements while allowing fine hand movements, such as writing or typing.

Splints are available without a prescription from a pharmacy or medical supply store, or with a prescription from an orthopedic or medical supply store. In special cases physiotherapists and occupational therapists can custom-fit splints made from lightweight materials.