What is a wrist sprain?

A sprain is an injury to a joint that causes a stretch or tear in a ligament. A ligament is a strong band of tissue connecting one bone to another. Your wrist is made up of eight bones that are attached to your hand bones of your forearm. the wrist joint is covered by a joint capsule and the bones are connected by ligaments.

How does it occur?

A wrist sprain can happen when you fall on your wrist or hand, when you are struck by an object, or during a forced motion of the wrist.

What are the symptoms?

You have pain, swelling, and tenderness in your wrist.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will review your symptoms and examine your wrist. He or she may order an x-ray to be sure you have not broken any bones in your wrist.

How is it treated?

Treatment may include:

• Ice packs on your wrist for 20 to 30 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for 2 or 3 days or until the pain goes away

• Elevating your wrist on a pillow while sitting or sleeping

• Anti-inflammatory or other pain medication prescribed by your doctor

• Wearing a splint or cast on your wrist to prevent further injury

• Physical therapy to help your wrist recover