Effect of a Prophylactic Brace on Wrist and Ulnocarpal Joint Biomechanics in a Cadaveric Model

BackgroundWrist pain from repetitive dorsiflexion and compression during pommel horse exercises is common among male gymnasts.PurposeTo determine the biomechanical effects of a prophylactic wrist brace on the wrist and ulnocarpal joints during mechanical loading in a cadaveric model.HypothesisThe lateral wedge of the palmar pad of the brace will compensate for positive ulnar variance, distributing contact forces more evenly across the radioulnar carpal joint.Study DesignControlled laboratory study.MethodsSix male and six female fixed cadaveric forearm-wrist specimens were subjected to a 32.13-kg compressive load applied through the long axis of the pronated forearm with a dorsiflexed wrist in contact with a support surface. Wrist joint dorsiflexion angle and ulnocarpal joint intraarticular peak pressure were assessed under three brace conditions: Ezy ProBrace with and without palmar pad and a nonbraced control.ResultsWrist joint dorsiflexion angle was significantly reduced by the Ezy ProBrace with and without the palmar pad. However, ulnocarpal joint intraarticular peak pressure was reduced only by the brace with pad.ConclusionPrevention of pathologic wrist changes requires intervention in pressure attenuation, which was achieved with the Ezy ProBrace with palmar pad.Clinical RelevanceThis brace may decrease the cumulative effects of repetitive stress of pommel horse exercise training.