Wrist Strain
A wrist strain is a general term used to describe pain in the wrist. This may be due to a sudden force causing an acute injury, or due to overuse, causing a repetitive strain injury.
Technically a 'strain' is an injury to a muscle, usually a small tear. Many people refer to any minor pain in the wrist as a strain, despite most cases being either ligament or tendon injuries.
A 'strain' may occur from a sudden force, usually bending the wrist quickly or beyond it's natural movement. It may also be a repetitive strain injury, which occurs following repeated movements of the wrist.
Symptoms of a Wrist Strain
- Pain in the wrist.
- Pain may develop suddenly or gradually.
- There may be an area which feels tender to touch.
- Swelling may develop.
- Bruising may appear.
- Pain on moving the wrist, especially against resistance.
Treatment
- Rest from activities which aggravate the injury.
- Apply ice to acute injuries.
- If swelling is present apply a compression bandage or support.
- Your Doctor may recommend taking ibuprofen to ease inflammation.
- A sports injury specialist may use electrotherapy treatments such as Ultrasound.
- Sports massage may also be helpful.
- Once pain has subsided, strengthening exercises can be used to prevent it happening again.
