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Sprained Wrist Symptoms and Treatments

Sprain occur when ligaments connecting bones within the joint are stretched too far and perhaps tear. A wrist sprain typically happens when the wrist is forced backward by a fall onto the palm of the hand. Symptoms vary in intensity, depending on how severe the sprain is.

  1. Sprain Grades

    • Sprains are graded by severity. Grade 1 describes mild sprains where the ligaments are only stretched. In Grade 2 moderate sprains, some of the ligaments are torn. Grade 3 sprains are severe because the ligament is completely torn, requiring medical or even surgical treatment.

    Symptoms

    • The symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, a sensation of popping when moving the wrist, and a feverish feeling to the skin in the wrist area. After the immediate pain subsides, pain during movement continues. Even a minor sprain can cause discomfort for several weeks.

    RICE

    • The preferred care for sprains is RICE treatment, short for "rest, ice, compress, and elevate." Rest the wrist for 48 hours, apply an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling, compress the swelling with an elastic bandage, and elevate the wrist above the heart.

    Pain Relievers

    • Aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can help with pain relief, if necessary.

    Medical Attention

    • If the injury seems severe or the pain and swelling does not subside within 48 hours, see a doctor. The doctor may apply a wrist splint to immobilize the injured area for about a week.

    Surgery/Rehabilitation

    • If surgery is required, several weeks of rehabilitation will involve exercising the wrist to restore strength and motion.

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