Wrist Sprains

If you suffer from wrist sprains, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What are Wrist Sprains?

A wrist sprain occurs when one or more ligaments in the wrist stretch beyond their normal range or develop a tear. Ligaments connect bones and help stabilize the wrist during movement, gripping, and weight-bearing activities. A sudden fall, direct impact, forceful twisting, or bending can place excessive stress on these tissues and cause a sprain. Doctors classify wrist sprains as mild, moderate, or severe based on the amount of ligament damage.

Wrist sprains can cause pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, stiffness, and reduced wrist movement. Some people also experience weakness or difficulty gripping and lifting objects. A mild sprain may involve ligament stretching or a small tear, while a more severe sprain can involve a complete ligament tear and significant wrist instability. Prompt evaluation can help identify the extent of the injury and guide appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of Wrist Sprains

Symptoms of a wrist sprain may include:

1. Pain: You may experience immediate or delayed pain at the site of the injury. The pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of ligament damage.
2. Swelling: The wrist may become swollen and tender due to inflammation and fluid accumulation.
3. Bruising: Discoloration or bruising around the wrist may occur as a result of blood vessels breaking due to the injury.
4. Limited Range of Motion: You may have difficulty moving your wrist fully or experiencing pain when trying to flex or extend it.
5. Weakness: Weakened grip strength or difficulty in performing tasks that require wrist movement may be present.

Treatments Options for Wrist Sprains

It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect a wrist sprain, as proper diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and promote healing. Treatment for a wrist sprain may involve:

1. Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain and allow the wrist to rest and heal.
2. Ice: Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce swelling and relieve pain. It is generally recommended to apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Compression: Wrapping the wrist with an elastic bandage or using a wrist brace can provide support and help reduce swelling.
4. Elevation: Elevating the hand and wrist above the heart level can help reduce swelling.
5. Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
6. Physical Therapy: Once the initial pain and swelling subside, a physical therapist may recommend exercises and stretches to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the wrist.

In the case conservative treatments do not provide relief, your hand and wrist specialist may consider other options such as corticosteroid injections or surgery.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Hand and Wrist Specialist in the DFW Metroplex, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us online. Telemedicine appointments are also available.