Understanding Wrist Sprain: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Effective Treatments

▫️Written by John Keller

✅ Reviewed by Dr. Jenny Hynes on July 19, 2024

  1. What is a wrist sprain?

  2. Causes of wrist sprains

  3. Signs and symptoms of wrist sprains

  4. Prevention of wrist sprains

  5. Diagnosis of wrist sprains

  6. Treatment options for wrist sprains

  7. Role of physiotherapy in treating wrist sprains

  8. Conclusion

Wrist sprains are common injuries that occur when the ligaments in the wrist are stretched or torn due to excessive force or sudden movement. These injuries are prevalent among individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive wrist motions or the risk of falls, such as sports, manual labor, and even daily tasks. The impact of wrist sprains can significantly affect one's ability to perform everyday activities, causing pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.

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What is a wrist sprain?

A wrist sprain is an injury to the ligaments, which are tough bands of connective tissue that connect bones and stabilize joints. When a wrist sprain occurs, these ligaments are either stretched beyond their normal range or torn. The wrist is composed of multiple small bones and ligaments, including the scapholunate ligament, which is often involved in wrist sprains. Damage to these ligaments can result in pain, swelling, and instability in the wrist, impairing hand function.

Causes of wrist sprains

Wrist sprains commonly occur from falls onto an outstretched hand, sports injuries, sudden twists, and overuse. When a person falls and tries to break the fall with their hand, the impact can overstretch or tear the wrist ligaments (Vanlauwe, & Almqvist, 2009). Sports that involve high-impact activities or repetitive wrist motions, such as basketball, gymnastics, and tennis, are frequent culprits. Sudden twists of the wrist, often occurring in manual labor or accidents, can also cause sprains. Overuse from repetitive tasks without proper breaks can gradually weaken the ligaments, making them more susceptible to injury (Lubowitz & Provencher, 2008). Risk factors include participation in high-impact activities, inadequate warm-up before physical activity, and poor wrist positioning during tasks

Signs and symptoms of wrist sprains

The typical signs and symptoms of a wrist sprain include pain, swelling, bruising, reduced range of motion, and tenderness around the wrist joint. The severity of these symptoms can vary based on the grade of the sprain:

  • Grade I (mild): Slight stretching or microscopic tearing of the ligament fibers. Symptoms include mild pain and swelling with minimal impact on wrist function ( Vanlauwe, & Almqvist, 2009).

  • Grade II (moderate): Partial tearing of the ligament. Symptoms include moderate pain, swelling, and bruising, with noticeable loss of function and stability.

  • Grade III (severe): Complete tear of the ligament. Symptoms include severe pain, significant swelling and bruising, and an inability to use the wrist normally (Lubowitz & Provencher, 2008).

Prevention of wrist sprains

Preventing wrist sprains involves several strategies.

  • Proper warm-up exercises are crucial as they prepare the muscles and ligaments for activity, reducing the risk of injury (Anderson & Hall, 2009).

  • Using protective gear, such as wrist guards during high-risk activities, can also provide added support and protection.

  • Maintaining good wrist strength and flexibility through regular exercises can help keep the ligaments and muscles robust and resilient.

Additionally, practicing safe techniques during activities, especially in sports, can minimize the risk of sudden twists or falls that may lead to sprains.

Diagnosis of wrist sprains

The diagnosis of wrist sprains typically involves a comprehensive approach. A physical examination is conducted to assess the extent of pain, swelling, and range of motion in the wrist (Vanlauwe, & Almqvist, 2009). The patient's history, including how the injury occurred, is also vital for accurate diagnosis. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound, are often used to rule out fractures and assess the extent of ligament damage (Lubowitz & Provencher, 2008). These diagnostic tools help in formulating an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment options for wrist sprains

Non-surgical treatments

Non-surgical treatments are typically the first line of defense for wrist sprains. The RICE protocol, which includes rest, ice application, compression, and elevation, is commonly recommended to reduce swelling and pain (Vedpathak, & Burke, 2011). Immobilization using wrist splints or braces can help support and protect the injured ligaments while they heal (Anderson & Hall, 2009). Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, are often prescribed to manage pain and reduce inflammation.

Surgical options

Surgery is considered necessary in severe cases, such as complete ligament tears that do not respond to non-surgical treatments. Surgical procedures aim to repair the damaged ligaments and restore wrist stability. Post-surgery care involves a period of immobilization followed by a structured rehabilitation process to regain strength and flexibility in the wrist ( Buijze et al., 2021). Physical therapy is often essential to ensure a full recovery and prevent future injuries.

Physiotherapy for wrist sprains

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment and rehabilitation of wrist sprains. It focuses on restoring wrist function, reducing pain, and preventing future injuries through a structured and personalized approach.

Role of physiotherapy in treating wrist sprains

Physiotherapy helps in managing wrist sprains by providing tailored exercises and treatments aimed at improving the mobility and strength of the wrist. A physiotherapist assesses the severity of the sprain and develops a rehabilitation plan that addresses the specific needs of the patient (Fong et al., 2009).

Specific physiotherapy techniques and exercises

  • Range of motion exercises: These exercises aim to restore the normal movement of the wrist. They include gentle stretching and controlled movements to enhance flexibility (Frizziero et al., 2014).

  • Strengthening exercises: Targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the wrist, such as wrist curls and resistance band exercises, help in stabilizing the joint and supporting the ligaments (Prentice, 2011).

  • Manual therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilizations and soft tissue massage can reduce stiffness and improve circulation in the affected area

  • Proprioceptive training: These exercises enhance the wrist's ability to sense its position and movement, which is crucial for preventing future sprains. Examples include balance exercises and using wobble boards (Lee & Lin, 2008).

Benefits of physiotherapy

Physiotherapy offers numerous benefits in the recovery from wrist sprains:

  • Pain reduction: Through targeted treatments, physiotherapy helps alleviate pain and discomfort

  • Improved flexibility and strength: Regular exercises and manual therapy improve the flexibility and strength of the wrist, facilitating a quicker return to normal activities ( Buijze et al., 2021).

  • Prevention of recurrence: By strengthening the wrist and improving proprioception, physiotherapy reduces the likelihood of future sprains

Conclusion

Understanding wrist sprains is crucial for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. These injuries can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life, making it important to recognize the signs and symptoms early. Seeking professional medical advice ensures an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan, whether it involves non-surgical methods or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the rehabilitation process, offering benefits such as pain reduction, improved flexibility and strength, and a lower risk of recurrence. Maintaining wrist health through regular exercise and safe techniques is essential for preventing future injuries and ensuring long-term functionality.

 

References:

  1. Anderson, M. K., & Hall, S. J. (2009). Foundations of athletic training: Prevention, assessment, and management. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

  2. Buijze, G. A., Jupiter, J., & Chammas, M. (Eds.). (2021). Distal Radius Fractures: Evidence-Based Management. Elsevier Health Sciences.

  3. Fong, D. T., Hong, Y., & Chan, L. K. (2009). A systematic review on ankle injury and ankle sprain prevention. Sports Medicine, 39(2), 73-94.

  4. Frizziero, A., Trainito, S., Oliva, F., Nicoli Aldini, N., Masiero, S., & Maffulli, N. (2014). The role of eccentric exercise in sport injuries rehabilitation. British medical bulletin, 110(1).

  5. Lee, S. C., & Lin, H. S. (2008). The effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on wrist sprain rehabilitation. Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, 45(7), 1105-1114.

  6. Lubowitz, J. H., & Provencher, M. T. (2008). Management of acute wrist injuries. Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery, 24(2), 231-233.

  7. Prentice, W. E. (2011). Rehabilitation techniques for sports medicine and athletic training. McGraw-Hill Education.

  8. Shapiro, L. M., & Kamal, R. (Eds.). (2023). Innovation in Upper Extremity Fracture Treatment, An Issue of Hand Clinics, E-Book: Innovation in Upper Extremity Fracture Treatment, An Issue of Hand Clinics, E-Book (Vol. 39, No. 4). Elsevier Health Sciences.

 
 
 

Article by

John Keller

Clinical Director | Sports & Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist

John graduated as a Physiotherapist from the Auckland University of Technology with the John Morris memorial prize for outstanding clinical practise in 2003. John has since completed Post Graduate Diplomas in both Sports Medicine and Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy with distinction, also collecting the Searle Shield for excellence in Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy.

 
 

Reviewed by

Dr. Jenny Hynes FACP

Clinical Director | Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist

Jenny sat extensive examinations to be inducted as a fellow into the Australian College of Physiotherapy in 2009 and gain the title of Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist, one of only a few physiotherapists in the state to have done so.

 
 
John Keller