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Sprained wrist

Low urgency
Common-

It corresponds to overstretching or tearing of the ligaments that stabilize the wrist joint.

The most common cause is trauma or a fall.

It presents with pain, inflammation, hematoma and limitation of wrist mobility.

Diagnosis is made by clinical history and physical examination.

Treatment is based on analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs and joint rest (including splinting). At the time of the trauma, local ice can be applied to benefit from its anti-inflammatory effect. When symptoms have improved, exercises should be introduced progressively to promote functional recovery of the joint. 

Bibliographic references
  1. Blake Reid Boggess. Evaluation of the adult with acute wrist pain. UpToDate, Apr 03, 2015.
  2. Chen PJ, Liu AL. Concurrent flexor carpi radialis tendon rupture and closed distal radius fracture. BMJ Case Rep 2014; 2014.
  3. Halikis MN, Taleisnik J. Soft-tissue injuries of the wrist. Clin Sports Med 1996; 15:235.
  4. Daniels JM 2nd, Zook EG, Lynch JM. Hand and wrist injuries: Part I. Nonemergent evaluation. Am Fam Physician 2004; 69:1941.
  5. Joe H. Gieck. El entrenador y la rehabilitación. Esguinces y distensiones. Lesiones del deportista. Salvat Editores, 1986.
Author
Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Wrist pain

    Pain in the hand

    Wrist bruise

    Swollen wrist

    Stiff wrist when movements are carried out

Symptoms to watch out for

Pain that does not subside with analgesics.
Numbness or tingling of the fingers
Increase in pain and swelling of the affected area

Self-care

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Apply cold compresses 3 times a day for 20 minutes to reduce the symptoms.
Avoid sudden movements.
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