How to reduce pain from a sprained wrist

A wrist sprain is an injury to one or more ligaments that support the wrist. It can cause pain, tenderness, swelling, bruising, or discomfort when gripping. Pain can also come from a small fracture or a more significant ligament injury, so the way the injury happened and the ability to use the hand matter.

For broader symptom context, see [Wrist Pain].

Rest from lifting, pushing, twisting, and sport at first. Place a cold pack wrapped in cloth over the wrist for short periods, allowing the skin to return to normal between applications. Keep the hand raised on a cushion when swelling is present. Remove rings if swelling is developing. A clinician may recommend a removable support; [Splinting] can limit painful motion while the wrist is assessed.

Do not force a painful stretch or use the wrist to test whether it is healed. Once pain and swelling begin to settle, gentle finger movement and carefully guided wrist movement can prevent stiffness. A physiotherapist can tailor progression, grip exercises, and return-to-activity advice; learn more about [Physiotherapy].

Arrange prompt assessment if the wrist looks deformed, pain is severe, swelling is rapidly increasing, or you cannot move the wrist or fingers normally. Seek urgent help for numbness, marked colour change, a cold hand, or an open injury. If pain remains significant or function is not improving, an examination may be needed to check for a fracture or a higher-grade ligament injury.

Ask whether imaging is needed, how long to use a support, which movements are safe now, and when lifting or sport can resume. Also ask whether pain relief medicines are suitable for your health history.