When it comes to playing volleyball, wearing a volleyball wrist brace correctly can make a significant difference in performance and injury prevention. Trust me, I have been there. My first experience with wrist braces was a bit clumsy, but once I got the hang of it, I saw a noticeable reduction in wrist strain. So here’s what you need to do to wear one properly, based on what experts recommend and what I’ve experienced.
To start, familiarize yourself with the specific type of wrist brace you have. Volar splints, which immobilize the wrist, and sleeve braces, which provide support without restricting movement, are the two main types. If you’re unsure, a volar splint is usually more rigid, whereas a sleeve brace is flexible. A volar splint worked best for me during rehabilitation when I had a sprain that kept me out of playing for almost 3 weeks. It kept my wrist immobilized, preventing any unnecessary movement.
The correct size matters a lot. Measure your wrist circumference accurately because a wrong size will either cut your circulation or offer no support at all. For instance, if your wrist circumference is between 5.5 inches and 6.5 inches, you’d typically need a small size. Refer to the specific size chart of the brand you’re buying. I measured my wrist with a simple measuring tape before heading to the store, which saved me from making repeated trips.
When fitting the brace, make sure it sits snugly but not too tight. Your fingers should be free to move, and your range of motion shouldn’t be overly restricted. If you feel numbness or tingling after putting it on, it’s too tight. I made this mistake during my first season, impacting my serve speed, which dropped from 55 mph to around 42 mph. Loosening it a bit immediately helped. Look for any signs of redness or impaired circulation during play. These are indicators that you need to adjust the fit.
Straps are your best friends here. Secure them in place without over-tightening. The average volleyball game lasts about 1.5 hours, and over-tightening can lead to discomfort or even increase your risk of injury. Notice how professional players like Kerri Walsh Jennings use their braces. They ensure that the straps are secure but not constrictive. I’ve learned to mimic that technique, and it adds a lot to endurance during long matches.
Positioning is key. The brace should cover the area that needs support without interfering with your grip or wrist movement. Back when I was using it wrong, it would slip down my wrist, providing no support during spikes or serves. Adjust the brace to sit just below your palm and above your wrist bone. It should allow for 60-degree wrist flexion and 40-degree extension, as limited movement can help prevent re-injury. I learned this from a sports therapist who advised me on maintaining full range of wrist motion.
Regularly inspect your wrist brace for wear and tear. These can typically last up to 6 months with frequent use, but if you play as vigorously as I do—let’s say 3 times a week—you might need to replace it more often. A worn-out brace won’t provide adequate support. The good ones might cost you around $20 to $50, depending on the brand and features. In my opinion, it’s money well spent to avoid medical bills that can escalate into hundreds or even thousands of dollars for wrist injuries.
When playing indoor or outdoor volleyball, environmental factors can also play a role. Sweat can make the brace slippery, impacting its grip and efficacy. Choose a brace made from moisture-wicking material if possible. Products from brands like McDavid or Mueller often use neoprene or elastic fabrics that help keep sweat in check. During my trial with a basic fabric brace, sweating made it loose, eventually leading to a minor strain. Switching to a neoprene brace solved the issue.
Understand the specific features your brace offers. Some models have padded palmar surfaces, which enhance comfort during extended use, while others have additional straps for extra support. My current wrist brace from McDavid has a thermal compression feature that keeps my muscles warm, improving both comfort and performance.
After every use, take the time to clean your brace. Most are machine washable on a gentle cycle but always check the washing instructions. Clean equipment lasts longer and maintains functionality more effectively. I usually clean mine every weekend, keeping it fresh and functional. A dirty or sweaty brace can lead to skin irritations or even infections. Sports Illustrated had an article last year highlighting the importance of hygiene in sports gear, confirming that bacteria growth in unwashed equipment can lead to other health concerns.
Using a brace that’s adapted to fit your specific needs can be a game-changer. Look into customizable options if you have unique requirements. Some braces offer detachable splints or adjustable tension straps. For instance, after recovering from a wrist injury, I transitioned to a customizable brace which allowed me to gradually reduce the support as my wrist strengthened. It’s like having a tailored plan for your wrist’s recovery.
One last tip: Always consult with a healthcare or fitness professional if you experience ongoing discomfort or pain. After my initial injury, I consulted a sports therapist who provided valuable insights into not just proper brace usage but also complementary exercises for wrist strength. This holistic approach helped me get back into the game faster and stronger. For an excellent selection of braces to choose from, check out this volleyball wrist brace.