Medically Reviewed by Michael Whitehurst, PA-C
A sprained wrist is a common injury, especially when trying to break a fall with an outstretched hand. This can result in stretched or torn ligaments in the wrist, leading to pain, swelling, and limited movement.
Who Is at Risk?
Sprained wrists frequently occur in individuals who place regular stress on their wrists or are at risk of falling—particularly athletes. In fact, hand and wrist injuries account for 3–9% of all sports-related injuries. Sports such as basketball, football, baseball, tennis, gymnastics, skiing, volleyball, hockey, and cricket commonly see these types of injuries.
Beyond sports, anyone involved in physically demanding work—especially lifting or carrying heavy items—is also at risk of wrist sprains.
What Causes a Sprained Wrist?
The most common cause is falling onto an outstretched hand. The impact can forcefully bend the wrist, damaging the ligaments. Other causes include sudden twists, repetitive strain, or direct trauma to the wrist.
Signs and Symptoms of a Sprained Wrist
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Swelling and tenderness
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Bruising or skin discoloration
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Sharp or aching pain, especially with movement
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A popping or tearing sensation at the time of injury
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Difficulty gripping or using the hand normally
At-Home Treatment for a Mild Wrist Sprain
If the injury appears minor, the following steps can help manage symptoms and promote healing:
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Rest: Avoid using the affected wrist until symptoms improve.
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Ice: Apply ice packs for 15–20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.
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Compression: Wrap the wrist with a bandage or use a brace to stabilize the joint.
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Elevation: Keep your wrist raised above heart level to minimize swelling.
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Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help with pain and swelling.
Wearing a wrist brace can also provide additional support during recovery.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical care promptly if you notice any of the following:
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Visible deformity or misalignment in the wrist or hand
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Persistent or worsening swelling
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Numbness, tingling, or loss of hand function
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Difficulty moving the wrist or gripping objects
These may indicate a more serious injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, that requires professional evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
The severity of a wrist sprain is typically determined through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI.
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Mild to moderate sprains can often be treated conservatively with rest, bracing, and physical therapy.
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Severe sprains, particularly those involving torn ligaments or joint instability, may require surgical repair. Most surgical procedures for wrist injuries are done on an outpatient basis.
How to Prevent Wrist Sprains
Wrist sprains aren’t always avoidable, but you can lower your risk with a few simple strategies:
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Strengthen your wrists with regular stretching and strengthening exercises:
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Wrist flexor stretch: Extend your arm with palm facing up and, with your other hand, gently pull the fingers and hand back toward the floor.
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Wrist extensor stretch: Extend your arm with palm facing down and, with your other hand, gently pull the fingers and hand down toward the floor.
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Grip training: Use a stress ball or hand gripper to build strength.
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Use protective gear when playing sports or doing high-risk activities. Ensure gloves, racquets, and other equipment are properly sized.
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Take breaks from repetitive motion such as typing or texting—ideally 5 minutes every hour.
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Practice daily stretching: Extend your arm with a straight elbow, then stretch your fingers back using the opposite hand.
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Consider a daily multivitamin if you’re over 35 to support bone and joint health.
Expert Wrist Care at Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic
At Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic, our fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions from fingertip to elbow. Many wrist injuries can be treated non-surgically using medications, injections, and on-site hand therapy. When surgery is needed, advanced outpatient procedures allow patients to recover quickly—often without the need for a hospital stay.
Have questions or think you may have a wrist injury? Contact our office to schedule an appointment with a wrist specialist today.
Schedule an Appointment with Raleigh Orthopaedic
If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or an injury, don’t wait to get the care you need. Our expert team at Raleigh Orthopaedic is here to help you feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 919-781-5600 to be seen—often within 48 hours. For immediate care, we offer walk-in orthopedic urgent care services. Click here for hours and locations.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical judgment. Always consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment.