Wrist Sprain

Sprains are Ligaments that Stretch or Tear

A wrist sprain is an injury to the ligaments in your wrist. Ligaments are tissues that connect your bones to each other. A sprained wrist occurs when these ligaments stretch or tear.

Wrist sprains are common injuries. They can occur during sports, work, or everyday activities. Symptoms of a wrist sprain include pain, swelling, and bruising. The pain may make it hard to move your hand or wrist.

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Types of Wrist Sprain Injuries

There are different types of sprains, depending on which ligaments are affected.

The most common type of wrist sprain is a lateral collateral ligament (LCL) sprain. This type of sprain occurs when the ligaments on the outside of your wrist are stretched or torn.  

Medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprains occur when the ligaments on the inside of your wrist are stretched or torn. It often occurs during contact sports activities.

Volar plate sprains occurs when the ligaments on the bottom of your wrist are stretched or torn. This type of sprain is less common.

Grades of Wrist Sprains

There are three grades of sprains.

Grade I and II sprains can often be treated at home with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications.

Grade III sprains however may require more aggressive treatment, such as immobilization or surgery.

If you think you have a wrist sprain, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. A doctor can determine the severity of your injury and recommend the best treatment plan.

Unexpected injuries that result in sprains or fractures are usually the primary reason you may experience wrist pain. This condition can also be remnants of long-term health issues such as ongoing stress, arthritis, or carpal tunnel syndrome.

A variety of factors could be the result of your wrist pain, thus diagnosing the exact reason may be hard to pinpoint.

Symptoms:

  • Pain
  • Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
  • Weakness
  • Numbness

Treatment:

  • Splint
  • Rest to reduce movement
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Ice-pack or compression for swelling
  • Surgery

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