Does physiotherapy treat wrist sprain?

A wrist sprain affects ligaments that support the wrist, often after a fall onto the hand or a twisting force. Pain, swelling, tenderness and reduced grip can make lifting, typing or turning a handle difficult. The injury may be mild or more serious, and a fracture or significant ligament injury can feel similar. Assessment helps determine whether the wrist needs imaging, a splint or a period of protection before exercises begin.

Follow the protection and movement advice given after assessment. Once appropriate, exercises may start with comfortable wrist and finger movement, then progress to forearm rotation, grip control, lifting tolerance and task practice. Avoid testing strength repeatedly while the wrist is swollen or sharply painful. Pacing work, sport and household tasks can prevent a flare. The Physiotherapy page offers general information about rehabilitation appointments.

Seek prompt medical assessment if the wrist looks deformed, pain is severe, you cannot grip or move the hand, or swelling is rapidly increasing. Numbness, unusual coldness, blue or pale fingers, or an open injury needs urgent attention. Persistent pain in one precise area after a fall should be reviewed even if the wrist can still move.

Ask whether a scan is needed, how long to use support, which movements are safe now, and what strength or motion you should regain before returning to sport or heavier work.