Wrist
Sprains
Introduction
A
wrist sprain is stretching or tearing of the ligaments that
support the wrist. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that
connect bones to each other. This often occurs due to a fall
on an outstretched hand which causes ligaments to stretch
which can be very painful. Pain will be present around the
wrist and there may be some redness and bruising. The patient
will complain of limited range of movement. A wrist sprain
can be classed in three different grades:
- Grade 1 Sprain:
Micro tear of the ligaments
- Grade 2 Sprain:
Partial tear of ligament and mid-joint instability.
- Grade 3 Sprain:
Severe or complete tear of ligaments and significant joint
instability.
Cause
- Accidental fall.
- Muscle weakness
- Inappropriate
wrist guards
- Playing certain
sports such as ice skating, football and basketball are
higher risk sports associated with this condition.
Treatment
- R.I.C.E:
Rest (Avoid using your injured wrist and hand),
Ice (Apply ice or a cold pack to the wrist
for 15-20 minutes, 4 times a day for several days, click
here to view the reusable hot and cold pack), Compression
(Wrap your wrist in an elastic support. This will limit
swelling and support your wrist) .and Elevation
( Keep the injured wrist raised above the level of your
heart for 48 hours such as up on a pillow. This will help
drain fluid and reduce swelling).
- Pain Killers
(please refer to your doctor for advice regarding appropriate
pain killers).
- Wrist Braces,
view below
- Surgery may
be required if the ligament is completely torn or their
is an associated fracture.
- If the sprain
is very severe the wrist may be casted for a weeks to immobilize
the area to allow healing.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilation exercises
and wrist braces will help speed up recovery and prevent further
injury.You may need to wear a brace to immobilize your wrist.
If you play sports, you may need to wear a wrist brace or
tape your wrist when you return to play.
Recommended
Products for Wrist Sprains
Hospital
Grade Suede Finish Wrist Brace
Recommended
when stabilization of the wrist is needed after a wrist sprain,
tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Brace has a metal palmar
stay that is orthopaedically designed to hold the wrist in
the neutral "cock-up" position and prevents flexion.
Pro
Lite Wrist Splint
The Pro Lite is wrist splint is ideal for weak wrists after
a sprain. Stabilizes the wrist while still allowing full movement
of the fingers
View
other wrist braces
