Wrist Sprains

Sprained Wrist: Understanding the Injury and How Physiotherapy Can Help 

A sprained wrist is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments in the wrist are stretched or torn. This can happen due to a fall onto an outstretched hand, sudden twisting, or impact during sports or other physical activities. A wrist sprain can range from mild, where the ligaments are slightly stretched, to severe, where the ligaments are torn, making it difficult to move the wrist. 

Symptoms of a Sprained Wrist 

The signs of a sprained wrist can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but common symptoms include: 

• Pain, especially when moving the wrist 

• Swelling and tenderness around the wrist joint 

• Bruising or discolouration 

• A feeling of weakness in the hand or wrist 

• Difficulty gripping or holding objects 

In more severe cases, the wrist may feel unstable, and the pain may worsen with activity. 

How Physiotherapy Can Help 

If you've suffered a sprained wrist, physiotherapy can play a crucial role in your recovery. Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat ligament injuries, helping you regain mobility, strength, and function while preventing further damage. 

1. Pain Management and Swelling Reduction 

During the initial phase of a sprained wrist, managing pain and reducing swelling is essential. A physiotherapist may use techniques such as ice therapy, gentle compression, and elevation to minimise swelling and promote healing. They may also recommend resting the wrist and using a splint or brace to protect the area while it heals. 

2. Restoring Range of Motion 

A sprained wrist can lead to stiffness and limited mobility, particularly if the wrist has been immobilised during the healing process. A physiotherapist will guide you through gentle range-of-motion exercises to restore movement in the wrist joint. These exercises are introduced gradually to ensure the ligaments heal properly without being overstressed. 

3. Strengthening the Wrist 

Once the initial pain and swelling have subsided, it's important to strengthen the muscles around the wrist to support the joint and prevent future injuries. A physiotherapist will design a personalised exercise program that targets the forearm, wrist, and hand muscles. This not only helps restore strength but also improves stability in the wrist joint. 

4. Improving Grip Strength and Function 

A sprained wrist can affect your ability to grip objects or perform daily tasks. Physiotherapy includes specific exercises to improve grip strength and hand function, helping you return to normal activities like writing, lifting, or using tools. 

5. Preventing Re-Injury 

Re-injury is a concern with wrist sprains, especially for athletes or those who use their wrists heavily for work. A physiotherapist will teach you proper techniques and strategies to avoid re-injury, such as taping, bracing, and performing wrist-specific strengthening exercises. 

Conclusion 

A sprained wrist can be a frustrating injury, but with the help of a physiotherapist, you can recover effectively and return to your usual activities. Physiotherapy not only aids in pain management and recovery but also helps to restore strength, mobility, and function, ensuring a faster return to normal life while reducing the risk of re-injury.