Wrist sprains are considered as common injuries to the ligaments in the wrist. These ligaments can be torn or overly stretched, thus resulting to a sprain. This typically occurs if the wrist is forcefully bent especially during falls in which the hands are usually outstretched.
A wrist sprain can range from mild to severe. A particular sprain is categorized based on the degree of injury sustained to the ligaments.
- Grade 1 – these are mild sprains that occur due to the stretching of the ligaments.
- Grade 2 – these are considered as moderate sprains that occur once the ligaments are torn partially and usually involve a minimal loss of function.
- Grade 3 – these are the severe sprains that occur once the ligaments are torn completely, thus requiring medical care.
Causes of wrist sprains
Majority of wrist sprains are typically caused by accidents such as a fall in which the individual lands on an outstretched hand. This can occur during daily activities but frequently occur during outdoor events and sports activities.
Symptoms of wrist sprains
When it comes to the symptoms of wrist sprain, it tends to vary in terms of the location and intensity. Common symptoms of wrist sprain usually include the following:
- Pain at the time the injury was sustained.
- Swelling in the wrist area.
- Constant pain when the wrist is moved.
- Discoloration of the skin surrounding the wrist.
- Tenderness at the site of injury.
- Warm sensation on the skin surrounding the wrist.
- Tearing or popping sensation within the wrist.
In some cases, the injury in the wrist appears mild with minor swelling, but it is possible than a vital ligament is torn that would entail surgical intervention to prevent future complications from arising.
Always bear in mind that even in mild cases, a doctor should evaluate the injury. Proper diagnosis and treatment of the injury is needed to avoid long-term pain and stiffness.
Diagnosing a wrist sprain
The doctor will assess the medical history as well as earlier injuries to the wrist or hand. Questions about how the injury occurred will be asked while the symptoms will be reviewed, including numbness in the hand.
The affected arm will be carefully examined to ensure that there are no other injuries sustained. If tenderness is present, it indicates a broken bone.
Ligaments that are partially torn are often difficult to diagnose, but can result to recurring disability if not treated with surgery. This is the reason why any injury to the wrist should be properly diagnosed especially the cause of persistent pain.
An X-ray is requested to determine if the injury might be linked to a broken bone. In some cases, a MRI scan, CT scan or arthrogram are requested. With an arthrogram, it involves injecting dye into the joint, thus providing a clear view of the ligaments and joints.
How to treat wrist sprains
For mild wrist sprains, the first aid treatment that can be performed at home is the RICE method.
- Rest the affected joint for 1-2 days.
- Ice the injured wrist to minimize the swelling but do not directly apply the ice on the skin. It is best to use an ice pack or ice wrapped in cloth. Apply ice for 20 minutes several times in a day.
- Compress the affected wrist using an elastic bandage.
- Elevate the wrist higher than the heart.
Pain medications can be administered for pain relief. In case the swelling and pain continues for more than 2 days, it is best to consult a doctor.