I sprained my wrist: what should I do?

A sprain stretches or tears one or more wrist ligaments. Pain may worsen when turning the hand, gripping, or bearing weight, and swelling or bruising can appear. A fracture can feel similar, especially after a fall, so a clinician may need to examine the wrist and consider imaging. Track changes in [Wrist Pain](/symptoms/wrist-pain/) rather than testing the joint repeatedly.

Remove rings and watches if swelling is developing. Rest the wrist, keep it raised, and apply a wrapped cold pack for short periods. Keep the fingers moving gently if this does not increase pain, but avoid lifting, pushing, and twisting. A removable support may reduce aggravating movement; [Splinting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/splinting/) should be fitted and used as advised. As pain settles, [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can guide mobility and strength.

Seek urgent care for a deformed wrist, an open wound, severe pain, numbness, pale or blue fingers, or inability to move or grip. Arrange a prompt assessment if swelling is marked, pain is directly over a bone, or symptoms followed a strong impact. Get review if the wrist is not steadily improving or normal tasks remain difficult.

Could this be a fracture rather than a sprain? Should I wear a support, and for how long? Which exercises are safe now? When can I return to work, lifting, sport, or driving?