A sprain occurs when the ligament that connects bone to bone are stretched or torn. It can result as the wrist is bent forcefully backwards or fall on to the palms.

Symptoms

These may vary according to intensity, location and degree of injury.

Some of common symptoms are:-

• Swelling at the wrist
• Pain at the site of the injury
• Bruising or discoloration of the skin
• Tenderness at the injury site

Diagnosis

The doctor will review the history of injury, symptoms past medical history. The entire arm is examined to check for the other site of injury.

Depending upon the check for grade of sprain X-RAY, MRI, CT is performed

Types of wrist sprain

Grade 1, mild, sprains when the ligaments are only stretched, but no tear.

Grade 2, moderate, sprains some ligaments can be torn. It may involve some loss of function.

Grade 3, severe, sprains in which ligament is completely torn. These require immediate medical & surgical attention

An avulsion fracture can also result in this type of sprain

Treatment

• Mild wrist sprains can usually be treated by RICE.
• R – Rest the joint for at least 48 hours.
• I – Ice the injury to reduce swelling.
• C – Compress the swelling with an elastic bandage.
• E – Elevate the injury above the level of the heart.
• Pain reliever, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can reduce pain
• Serve sprain may require surgical treatment followed by a period of rehabilitation and exercises to strengthen the wrist and restore the motion.