Wrist Sprain Treatment

A sprain is a type of injury that damages the ligaments of the affected part of the body. As we all know, ligaments are tough elastic tissues that do the job of binding together the ends of two different bones in a joint. The ligaments provide stability and support to the joint. The joints are able to perform a wide range of movements, thanks to the elastic nature of the ligaments.

Ligaments in a Sprained Wrist
Although, ligaments are elastic by nature, they can be stretched only to a certain extent. However, when the stretching limit of the ligament surpasses its normal range, the resulting condition is known as sprained wrist. Too much stretching can tear away the ligaments partially or completely.

Sprained Wrist - When it Does it Occur
When a person falls on his hand or excessive bending of the hand, it can have a negative impact on the ligament. The impact may cause partial tearing away of the ligaments. People participating in sports like soccer, American football and baseball are commonly diagnosed with sprained wrist after a sports injury.

Wrist Sprain Symptoms
People with this type of injury have a 'painful' experience while moving the wrist. Sometimes, the person feels pain in the wrist when the fingers are in motion. Change in color of the skin accompanied by swelling of the injured area is another symptom of a sprained wrist.

Wrist Sprain Treatment

Rest
The patient has to give complete rest for the first few days by avoiding all activities that trigger pain in the affected wrist. The person will definitely experience difficulty in moving the wrist, as the ligaments are damaged. In case the ligaments and muscles are torn partially or completely, it may take several days before one starts moving it extensively. Whatever may be the severity of the injury, adequate rest is crucial for complete recovery. Not giving sufficient rest to the injured area will surely invite further complications.

Ice Therapy
Application of ice therapy helps to reduce the inflammation associated with this injury. Applying ice cubes immediately over the injured area can work wonders to minimize the pain. Rub the ice cubes gently over the wrist sprain in a circular fashion for 15-20 minutes, 4-5 times in a day, to relieve pain. Icing the affected area for more than 20 minutes is not recommended, as it can injure the skin tissues. Ice therapy does not necessarily involve use of ice cubes. Frozen vegetables such as peas packed in a plastic bag, can also be used to get relief from pain. Ice therapy is most effective when it is implemented in the first 48 hours after injury. If icing the damaged area is done,in a proper manner, it can provide a great amount of comfort.

Compression
Another approach to reduce swelling would be to use a compression wrap. One can use an Ace bandage to elevate the pain. This product is available at various drug stores and one does not have to shell out lot of money to purchase an ACE wrap (elastic bandage). Using wrist braces is also a good option. However, wearing it too tight can affect the blood circulation, hence one needs to consult a health care provider, to know how to wrap it, so that it fits comfortably.

Elevation
Keeping the hand in a raised position above the chest level, at least for two days post injury, to reduce swelling and internal bleeding. One can use pillows to keep the hand in an elevated position, when taking rest.

Surgery
This form of treatment is adopted when the doctor detects that the ligaments are completely torn. An X-ray or an MRI scan of the injured area will help to determine the extent of damage to the ligaments. To restore normal movements of the wrist suffering from fully torn ligament, surgery is the only option.

Exercises
Exercise is a part of rehabilitation program, especially for people who have undergone a surgery to cure wrist sprain. However, exercise has to be done when the pain has subsided considerably and the patient is comfortable enough to move the hand. People still experiencing sharp pain should stay away from this form of wrist sprain treatment. One form of exercise involves holding a rubbing ball in the hand affected with wrist sprain and then squeezing it. Allow the hand to remain in this position for around 30 seconds. Now release the grip over the ball, so that it regains its normal size. Repeat this procedure 10-15 times, twice daily.

Wrist Sprain Grade
The extent of tissue damage determines the grade of sprain. Wrist sprains are given grades as 1, 2 or 3 that help us to find out how severe is the injury. Grade 1 wrist sprain is not a cause for concern as there is no tearing of the ligaments. With appropriate rest, one can restore normal movement of wrist within 2-3 weeks. Sprains that come under grade 3 are worst, as they cause maximum damage to the wrist tissues (ligaments completely torn) and generally require surgery. Grade 2 sprains (ligaments slightly torn) are the most frequently diagnosed sprains with a healing time varying between 4-6 weeks.

On the whole, consult a doctor when rest, application of ice and wearing braces, fail to improve symptoms of wrist sprain. Treatment in such cases involve surgical repairing of damaged ligaments which would be considered to restore normal functioning of the wrist.