What should you know about dorsal wrist sprain?

Ligaments connect wrist bones and help guide stable movement. A fall onto the hand, a sudden bend, or repeated loading can strain these tissues. Tenderness may sit over the back of the wrist and can increase when you grip, push up from a chair or move the wrist into extension. A sprain can resemble a small fracture or tendon irritation, so persistent pain should not be self-diagnosed from symptoms alone.

For the first day or two, reduce activities that provoke pain and support the wrist in a comfortable neutral position. A cold pack wrapped in cloth may help with swelling. Keep the fingers moving gently, but avoid forceful gripping, heavy lifting and sports until motion is easier. A clinician may recommend a wrist splint, followed by gradual exercises or physiotherapy to restore movement and strength. See [Splinting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/splinting/) and [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Arrange an assessment if pain is severe, swelling is marked, the wrist looks unusual, or you cannot use the hand normally. Seek urgent help for numbness, blue or unusually pale fingers, a cold hand, or rapidly worsening pain. If discomfort does not begin settling with protection and rest, an examination and imaging may be needed to check for a fracture or a more significant ligament injury. More about [Wrist Pain](/symptoms/wrist-pain/).

Ask which ligament may be involved, whether an X-ray or another scan is appropriate, how long support should be worn, and when gripping, driving or exercise can resume.