Wrist-hand orthoses (WHO) are devices designed to support, align, protect, or improve the function of the wrist and hand. They are commonly used in the management of neuromuscular or orthopedic conditions such as stroke, cerebral palsy, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendon injuries.

A WHO typically extends from the forearm to the palm, sometimes including the fingers, depending on the level of support needed. They can be static, holding the wrist and hand in a fixed position to prevent contractures or promote healing, or dynamic, allowing controlled movement to aid function and rehabilitation. The main goals of a WHO are to reduce pain, improve joint alignment, support weak muscles, protect healing tissues, and enhance functional use of the hand and wrist in daily activities.

For example, a static WHO is often used for carpal tunnel syndrome or wrist drop, it maintains the wrist in a slightly extended position to relieve the pressure exerted on the median nerve. More complex WHOs may include finger components to support grasp or prevent deformities like ulnar drift in rheumatoid arthritis.