When is physiotherapy recommended for wrist sprain?

A therapist first checks wrist and finger movement, grip, swelling and the demands of your usual activities. Treatment may then use gentle range-of-motion exercises, progressive strengthening and practical advice for lifting, typing or sport. The plan should reflect the injured tissue and whether a fracture or more serious ligament injury has been ruled out.

Protect the wrist from painful loading, keep the fingers moving if advised, and use the support recommended by your clinician. Seek an assessment if pain or function is not improving, or if you cannot grip, rotate the forearm or use the hand normally. Follow the home plan and increase resistance only as directed. Read about [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Get prompt medical care for visible deformity, severe swelling, worsening pain, numbness, a cold or pale hand, marked weakness, or inability to move the wrist after the injury. A sprain-like injury can sometimes need imaging or a different treatment plan.

Ask whether imaging is needed, which movements are safe, whether a brace should be worn, how to measure progress, and when work or sport can be resumed.