What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Sprained Wrist

What is Wrist Sprains? (Definition/Background Information)

• A Wrist Sprain is a common injury that results, when the ligaments within the wrist are stretched or torn. The wrist ligaments connect the eight carpal bones to the wrist joint
• These are usually caused by a direct fall, hurting the wrist. Overall, athletes have the highest rate of occurrence
• Treatment associated with Wrist Sprains includes both nonsurgical and surgical methods

3 grades of severity are associated with a Wrist Sprain. These are:

• Grade I: A grade I Wrist Sprain occurs, when the ligaments of the wrist are stretched, but not torn
• Grade II: A grade II Wrist Sprain occurs, when the ligaments of the wrist are partially torn, limiting the function and range of motion
• Grade III: A grade III Wrist Sprain occurs, when the ligaments of the wrist are completely torn, necessitating immediate medical and surgical treatment

Who gets Wrist Sprains? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Wrist Sprains may occur in individuals of all age, race, ethnic groups, or gender
• Young athletes, who are physically active, have a high rate of occurrence of this condition

What are the Risk Factors for Wrist Sprains? (Predisposing Factors)

Common risk factors associated with Wrist Sprains includes participation in sports, such as tennis, football, rugby, racquetball, squash, and hockey.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Wrist Sprains? (Etiology)

Some common causes of a Wrist Sprain include:

• Direct trauma to the wrist, due to an automobile accident
• Taking part in any rough or high-impact sport
• Falling from a significant height; especially landing on one’s arm/wrist (or the injury occurring since the individual is overweight)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Wrist Sprains?

The pain one experiences with a Sprained Wrist depends on the severity of the injury. Signs and symptoms of a Wrist Sprain include:

• Pain, while bending or rotating the wrist
• Difficultly with wrist movement
• Swelling, noticeable bruising

How are Wrist Sprains Diagnosed?               

Diagnostic methods that a physician may use to help diagnose a Wrist Sprain include:

• Physical examination and medical history evaluation
• X-ray of wrist: X-rays use radiation to produce images of the wrist, which can also help your physician rule out other possible causes for wrist discomfort, such as a fracture
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of wrist joint: An MRI is a more detailed scan that uses a magnetic field to produce images. It allows a physician to view any damage to the bones and soft tissue and aids in confirming a diagnosis
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan of wrist joint: A CT scan takes images of bones and soft tissue, such as ligaments that connect the joint together. This allows a physician to examine the extent of the injury

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Wrist Sprains?

The complications due to a Wrist Sprain may include:

• Avulsion fracture: It is common complication associated with a Wrist Sprain. They occur when small bone fragments or ligaments are detached (pulled-off) from the main bone
• Permanent disability
• Prolonged and chronic pain

How are Wrist Sprains Treated?

Treatments associated with a Wrist Sprain include both nonsurgical and surgical methods.

The nonsurgical treatment methods include:

• Any activity that aggravates the wrist condition should be avoided. The physician may advise the individual to refrain from participating in any physical activities, till the pain or symptoms get better
• The use of a compression bandage or an ace bandage, wrapped around the affected area, is an early treatment technique
• Applying ice (or a damp heated towel) to the wrist can help reduce pain and swelling
• Elevation of the wrist helps prevent blood from gathering around the injured area
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory oral medications, such as indomethacin and naproxen, may be used to treat a Wrist Sprain. These medications can help decrease the pain and swelling
• Individuals are likely to need physical therapy exercises. The goals of these exercises are to strengthen the wrist muscles, improve flexibility, and decrease stiffness. It may take several months for an individual to complete the physical therapy program and regain full strength and functionality

Surgical treatment methods include:

A majority of Wrist Sprain injuries do not require any surgery. Individuals with persistent and unrelenting pain will usually require a surgical procedure, to repair the damaged ligaments.

• Arthroscopy: Arthroscopic surgery is a moderately invasive surgical procedure that is used to repair the wrist ligaments, using small instruments. These instruments are inserted through a small incision within the wrist
• Open reconstructive surgery: Open reconstructive surgery is a surgical procedure that is used to repair the injured ligaments, using specialized surgical orthopedic devices (such as stitches or suture), or using other healthy ligaments, around the wrist

How can Wrist Sprains be Prevented?

To prevent a Wrist Sprain, individuals should be careful and consciously aware, while performing any physical activities, such as sports, or even some normal daily activities that could lead to situations involving accidents. Children must be provided a safe environment to work, study, or play. Any possible dangers should also be anticipated and appropriate safety measures adopted.

A few ways to further help prevent unwanted injuries or a Wrist Sprain include:

• Wearing appropriate footwear (such as the proper shoe size) may help prevent accidents
• Individuals should wear appropriate safety equipment, while participating in sports

What is the Prognosis of Wrist Sprains? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The long-term prognosis of an individual with Wrist Sprain is usually good, in a majority of the cases. With proper treatment, most individuals regain the full strength and range of motion of their affected wrist
• Wrist Sprains usually require 2-6 weeks to heal. However, a severe injury may require prolonged physical therapy, in order to achieve optimal results

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Wrist Sprains:

Arthroscopic surgery is a new modality of surgical intervention used for Sprained Wrists.