If you sprain your wrist?

A sprain affects one or more wrist ligaments after a fall, twist, or forceful movement. Tenderness may sit on the thumb side, little-finger side, or back of the wrist. Bruising and reduced range of motion can appear, but symptoms vary with the ligament involved.

A fracture or tendon injury can feel similar, particularly after a fall onto an outstretched hand. Severe pain, marked tenderness over a bone, or loss of normal wrist shape should not be assumed to be a simple sprain.

Rest from lifting, gripping, and movements that increase pain. Keep the wrist in a comfortable neutral position and remove rings if swelling is developing. A wrapped cold pack may provide comfort for short periods; protect the skin and stop if numbness occurs.

A clinician may recommend a temporary [Splinting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/splinting/) plan. Later, guided [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can restore movement and strength, while [Kinesiology Taping](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/kinesiology-taping/) may be considered for support in selected situations.

Seek prompt assessment if the wrist is very swollen, movement is markedly restricted, pain is focused over a bone, or you cannot grip or use the hand normally. Imaging may be needed because some fractures are difficult to distinguish from a sprain at home.

Get urgent help if the hand is cold, pale, blue, numb, or increasingly weak, or if the wrist is visibly deformed or has an open wound. These signs need immediate evaluation.

Ask: Could I have a fracture? Should I wear a splint, and for how long? Which movements are safe? When should I start exercises? What changes in swelling, sensation, or grip should prompt a review?