Are special splints required for my carpal tunnel, or will anything that restricts the bending motion work?

Anything supportive: While the carpel tunnel splints may be the most comfortable and supportive, any agent that holds the wrist in a similar posisiton will work. The wrist guards used in roller blading are a particularly useful alternative.

Yes, neutral wrist: The carpal tunnel has the most space for the median nerve while in a neutral position, not flexed or extended. Off the self braces tend to place the wrist in an extended position. You can bend the brace yourself or you can have a custom splint made by an occupational therapist. See a board certified orthopaedic hand surgeon for further evaluation and treatment options.

Nothing special: The splints need to hold the wrist in a neutral position - that can be done with over the counter splints from the local pharmacy or specialized splints fabricated by therapy. They both work the same.

Neutral brace: Any wrist splint that holds your wrist straight ( neutral) will work. Some splints hold your wrist back (extended) . This decreases the space for the nerve ( carpal tunnel) and are not as effective.

Wrist splint: Inexpensive wrist splints can be found in any drug store or big stores like walmart. It's important to make sure your wrist is straight in the splint and not cocked up or bent.

Brace: Any brace that keeps the wrist in a neutral or slightly extended position will suffice.