Sprained wrist: what to do and when to seek care

A wrist sprain is an injury in which one or more ligaments supporting the wrist are stretched or torn. It can cause pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness and weaker grip after a fall, twist or sudden load. A fracture can produce similar symptoms, so a painful wrist after trauma should not be assumed to be only a sprain.

Remove rings or a watch before swelling increases. Rest from lifting, gripping and sport, but keep the fingers, thumb, elbow and shoulder moving. Support the wrist in a comfortable position and raise the hand on pillows. Apply a cold pack wrapped in cloth for short periods; never place ice directly on the skin.

A removable support may make light tasks more comfortable, but it should not feel tight or cause tingling, colour change or increased pain. As swelling and pain ease, gently bend, straighten and turn the wrist within a comfortable range. Increase activity gradually rather than testing the injury with heavy loading. A pharmacist can help you choose pain relief that is suitable for your medicines and health conditions.

Seek urgent assessment after a major fall or impact, or if the wrist looks misshapen, you heard a snap or grinding sound, pain is severe, you cannot move the wrist or hold an object, or the hand becomes numb, blue, white or cold. These findings can indicate a fracture, dislocation, nerve problem or impaired blood flow.

Arrange a clinical review if pain or swelling is not beginning to settle, daily use remains difficult, or symptoms worsen after initial improvement. Persistent tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist after a fall deserves assessment because some wrist fractures can be difficult to recognise early.

Ask whether the examination suggests ligament injury or a possible fracture, whether imaging is needed, how long to use a support, and which movements are appropriate now. If work, sport or caregiving requires strong gripping, ask for clear return-to-activity milestones and whether hand therapy or physiotherapy would help restore motion and strength.