Cock Up Wrist Splints & Volar Wrist Orthoses

Professional Cock Up Wrist Splints & Orthoses

A cock up wrist splint is a specialized orthosis designed to immobilize the joint in a neutral to slightly extended position (typically 15-30 degrees). This clinical positioning is the "gold standard" for reducing pressure on the median nerve and resting inflamed tendons. At DME-Direct, we carry medical-grade wrist cock-up splints used by Occupational Therapists and Hand Surgeons to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, wrist fractures, and radial nerve palsy. Whether you need a volar cock-up splint for maximum stability or a breathable static cockup orthosis for nighttime use, our selection provides the rigid support necessary for clinical recovery.

Clinical Applications for Wrist Cock-Up Orthoses

In Occupational Therapy, the volar wrist cock-up splint is a primary intervention for upper extremity rehabilitation. By supporting the wrist from the palmar (volar) side, these splints maintain the functional "position of readiness," allowing for full MCP (knuckle) mobility while preventing harmful flexion.

Common Indications and Wearing Schedules

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nighttime wear is often prescribed to prevent wrist flexion that compresses the median nerve during sleep.
Post-Fracture Recovery: A static cockup splint provides the necessary immobilization following cast removal or stable wrist fractures.
Tendonitis & De Quervain's: Limits repetitive strain on the radial or ulnar styloid processes.

Volar vs. Dorsal Support

Most prefabricated wrist splints feature a volar stay—a removable metal or plastic bar on the palm side—to prevent the wrist from dropping. For patients with sensitive palmar skin or specific surgical incisions, a dorsal wrist cock-up splint may be used to provide support from the back of the hand. Our assortment includes various lengths (6", 8", and 10") to accommodate different forearm sizes and levels of required leverage.

How to Ensure a Proper Fit

To maximize the efficacy of your cock up orthosis, ensure the proximal strap is secure but does not impede circulation. The distal edge of the splint should end just before the "distal palmar crease" to allow your fingers to move freely for daily tasks. If you are treating bilateral wrist pain, we offer matching supports for both the right and left hand in materials ranging from breathable spacers to traditional medical canvas.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cock-Up Wrist Splints

A cock-up wrist splint is a rigid orthopedic brace designed to hold the wrist in a "neutral" to slightly extended position (angled slightly upward). This specific position is clinically proven to reduce pressure on the median nerve and reduce tension in the wrist flexor tendons. It is the gold standard for treating carpal tunnel syndrome, distal radius fractures, and severe wrist sprains where total immobilization is required for healing.
While they can be worn anytime, cock-up splints are most effective when worn at night. Many people unconsciously curl their wrists into a "fetal" position while sleeping, which severely compresses the carpal tunnel. A cock-up splint prevents this flexion, ensuring the nerve stays decompressed for 6–8 hours of rest. For daytime use, they are recommended during repetitive tasks that trigger pain.
Most medical-grade cock-up splints feature a malleable aluminum palmar stay. This means the metal bar in the palm can be slightly bent by a healthcare professional or the user to achieve the exact degree of extension (cock-up) recommended for your specific injury. However, you should avoid repeated bending, as this can weaken the metal over time.
No. A well-designed cock-up splint is contoured to end at the "distal palmar crease" (the top line across your palm). This allows your fingers and thumb to move freely for typing, eating, and daily tasks while keeping the wrist joint itself completely stabilized. If you cannot make a full fist while wearing the brace, it may be positioned too high on the hand.
To clean your splint, first remove the metal palmar stay from its fabric pocket. Hand wash the fabric portion in cool water with a mild detergent and allow it to air dry completely. Once the fabric is dry, slide the metal stay back into its sleeve. Never put the brace in a dryer, as high heat will damage the Velcro and the structural integrity of the fabric.

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