Your wrist is a highly flexible joint that helps you make all sorts of hand movements. Unfortunately, this also makes it vulnerable to injuries, such as sprains. While most cases of sprained wrists heal within a few weeks, it can be a painful ordeal that takes you away from your daily activities.
Let’s discuss the risk factors and causes of a sprained wrist, so you can take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Causes Of Wrist Sprain
Sprained wrists occur when the ligaments, the tough bands that keep the bones together, get injured. A sudden impact, bend, or twist could force the wrist out of position and cause a ligament tear.
A sprained wrist usually happens when you fall and land on your outstretched hand. It could also happen in athletes playing sports that require repetitive wrist usage, such as racket sports. Weightlifting, boxing, and gymnastics could also cause sprains because they put too much stress on the wrist joint. Accidents causing physical trauma can also damage the wrist ligaments.
When a sprained wrist is not treated properly, you may end up with weak bones and wrist ligaments. These effects may contribute to arthritis in the wrist or exacerbate existing arthritis symptoms in the wrist.
Types Of Wrist Sprains
Sprained wrists are categorized depending on the severity of the damage to the ligaments. The three types are:
Mild Sprains (Grade 1)
Mild injuries happen with the overstretching of ligaments or when there are microscopic tears. The ligaments might be overstretched but not necessarily torn. In this case, you might experience swelling, bruising, and pain. Once the ligament begins to heal, you may feel stiffness.
Moderate Sprains (Grade 2)
When some wrist ligaments become partially torn, it is considered a moderate level sprain. The ligament may be torn and overstretched.
Severe Sprains (Grade 3)
Severe sprains happen when one or more wrist ligaments are torn completely. Severe cases usually require medical attention. Your doctor may order an MRI scan or an X-ray to assess the damage to your wrist and craft an appropriate treatment plan.
What Are The Risk Factors For Wrist Sprain?
Athletes playing sports involving frequent hand-use are likely to get a sprained wrist. However, it’s not just athletes who are at risk. You can get a sprained wrist if you do exercises like push-ups without proper stretching or use your wrists in a strenuous manner. If your work involves intense wrist usage or heavy lifting, you may also be prone to a sprained wrist.
To reduce the risk and prevent injury, make sure to wear protective gear. Many supportive devices, like protective wrist tape and wrist guards, could support your wrist and keep it from bending too much when you fall.
If you suspect you may have a sprained wrist, don’t ignore the pain. Pain is a tell-tale sign that you may be overworking yourself. It helps to take time to rest. Whenever you’re in pain or feel tired, it is best that you take a break from playing sports or exercising. Letting your wrist relax lessens the risk of severe wrist disorders, injuries, and sprained wrists.
Sprained Wrist Treatment In North Dakota
While home remedies can provide pain relief from a sprained wrist, it’s best to see a doctor for advice if your pain lasts longer than a few days. If you experience unusual sensations or see a visible deformity in the wrist, it may indicate a more severe injury.
The Bone & Joint Center is the best place you can go if you want to experience expert care for a sprained wrist. We have several clinics around North Dakota that you can choose from.
To schedule an appointment, you can call our office at (800) 424-2663. Our team of experienced and highly qualified healthcare providers looks forward to serving you.
