Effects of Wrist Support Types on Grip Strength, Stability, Muscle Fatigue, and Muscle Activity During Static and Dynamic Functional Tasks

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of sleeve and wrap wrist supports on grip strength, stability, muscle activation, and muscle fatigue in healthy adults.

Methods: Forty-four healthy adults performed four functional tasks—Wrist Laser Stability Test, Cup Holding Test, Dart Throwing Accuracy Test, and Hammer Rotation Test—under no support, sleeve, and wrap conditions. Grip strength, RMS, and MDF were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests.

Results: Wrist wrap significantly improved grip strength and performance in dynamic tasks, while the sleeve offered greater benefits in static stability. MDF increased, indicating enhanced fatigue resistance, and RMS decreased, suggesting more efficient activation. These findings show that functional effects of wrist supports differ by type and task, underscoring the importance of individualized selection for rehabilitation, sports, and occupational applications.

Conclusions: The effects of wrist supports vary by type and task, indicating their use should be tailored to specific functional goals in rehabilitation, sports, and occupational contexts.