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Is there a difference between arthritis gloves and compression gloves?
“Arthritis gloves” is one way to market certain compression gloves. Not all arthritis gloves are compression gloves—some use thermal technology instead to address arthritis symptoms.
Similarly, not all compression gloves are used solely for arthritis. Compression gloves are also advertised as helpful for carpal tunnel syndrome, typing and driving.
What are copper arthritis gloves?
Copper arthritis gloves are compression gloves with copper filaments incorporated into the fabric. While copper itself has antimicrobial properties, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that copper compression gloves are more effective than standard compression gloves with arthritis symptom relief.
According to Dr. Gamble, the benefit that some folks feel from copper gloves is likely a placebo effect, which is acceptable if it improves their quality of life without harm.
Who should be using arthritis gloves?
Without clear, supporting evidence, experts cannot say whether certain groups should use arthritis gloves—only that these gloves may be worth a try.
“Overall, I don’t see any negative side effects to the gloves and would consider them generally safe to use,” says Dr. Gamble. However, patients may still experience pain, stiffness or weakness after or even during use.
Chris Nesbitt, a physical therapist at the Shepherd Spine and Pain Institute in Atlanta, suggests wearing arthritis gloves at night may help provide improved sleep by alleviating pain that otherwise would disrupt sleep.
Still, experts stress that arthritis gloves don’t cure or alter the process of arthritis. They do not treat inflammation, prevent damage or reverse existing damage.
