Biomechanics of the Wrist

The wrist is a complex joint composed of eight small bones (carpal bones), ligaments, tendons, and muscles that allow a range of movements. Injuries or chronic conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome result from overextension, overuse, or strain on these structures. The goal of a wrist brace is to:

• Restrict motion to prevent further injury
• Provide support by stabilizing the joint
• Alleviate pressure on sensitive areas, such as the carpal tunnel

Stabilization

The wrist brace works based on the principle of mechanical force distribution:

• Force absorption and redirection: By limiting the range of motion, the brace prevents harmful movements and spreads out the load across a larger surface area, reducing localized strain on the wrist.
• Compression: A properly designed brace provides uniform pressure on the wrist, which improves circulation and reduces swelling through mechanical compression.

Conceptual design
Material Choice:

• Main Body: Durable and biocompatible materials such as TPU or PETG for optimal performance.
• Cushioned Inner Layer(optional): silicone or foam inserts for added comfort at high-pressure points.

Padding:
Material - Foam
Closed-cell foam provides cushioning, absorbing impact and distributing pressure evenly across the wrist. This helps prevent discomfort from prolonged wear. The padding protects sensitive areas of the wrist and palm, reducing pressure points and minimizing the risk of skin irritation.

Straps:
Material- Velcro
The flexibility of Velcro enables the brace to accommodate varying wrist sizes. It allows for easy adjustments, providing a secure fit without compromising comfort. 

Voronoi Pattern:
A lightweight structure which provides optimal ventilation and reduces material usage while maintaining structural integrity.



References:
The design and manufacturing of a Patient-Specific wrist splint for rehabilitation of rheumatoid arthritis. (2024). Materials & Design, 238, 112704. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matdes.2024.112704