What can i do for a sprained wrist?

A sprained wrist has stretched or injured supporting ligaments. Pain may be accompanied by swelling, bruising, tenderness or a weaker grip. A sprain cannot always be distinguished from a small fracture at home, particularly after a fall. Wrist pain that persists deserves attention even when the original injury seemed minor.

Stop activities that reproduce pain, remove rings before swelling increases, and rest the hand in a raised position when possible. Apply a cold pack wrapped in cloth for brief intervals. A comfortable splint can limit unwanted motion, but it should not cause tingling, colour change or increasing pain. Move the fingers gently several times through the day. Once swelling eases, introduce easy wrist movement without forcing the end range. Physiotherapy can help if stiffness, weakness or fear of using the hand continues. For pain medicine, check the label and your medical conditions with a pharmacist or clinician.

Get urgent assessment for a deformed wrist, severe pain, rapidly increasing swelling, cold or blue fingers, numbness, or inability to move the hand. Arrange a clinical review after a fall if gripping remains difficult or pain is focused over a bone. Seek follow-up when home care is not producing steady improvement.

Ask whether you need imaging, whether a splint is appropriate, how much use is safe, and which signs mean the splint should be removed. Ask when to start strengthening and whether physiotherapy could address persistent stiffness.