Have you tried playing basketball and then suddenly the ball was passed hard on you causing your wrist to twist more than its capability? If yes, then sure you could relate to this article. Injuring your writs through the above manner is called sprain. What are the symptoms of sprain and the sprained wrist treatment?
Sprain is an injury of the joints or the ligaments (connects bones to bones) which is caused by stretching beyond the capability of the joint or ligament. Many people confuse themselves with strain and sprain. Strain, on the other hand, is also an injury but is referring to the injury of the muscles and tendons (connects muscles from the bones). Strain also happens in the same manner as with sprain.
The symptoms of sprain are as follows: swelling of joint, pain (which can limit the movement of the person), tenderness, warmth around the injure area, feeling of popping around the wrist and bruising.
Diagnosis of sprain is best achieved with the help of the following diagnostic equipments: X-ray, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), arthroscopy ( a small camera is inserted into the wrist), and arthrogram ( a dye is injected into the wrist and is viewed in a way similar to MRI).
Sprain is divided into three grades which differ in severity. In grade I, there is pain but with minor damage to the ligament. In grade II, pain is elevated and severe ligament damage is present. There is a feeling of loose joint and loss of function can be observed. In grade III, pain is more elevated and ligament is completely torn. Severe joint looseness is observed and so as loss of function.
Treatment of sprained wrist includes Rest, Ice compress, Compression and Elevation. Rest of the injured area is advised after the injury. Rest means that the injured joint or ligament should not be used for around two days until symptoms are a lot better. After two days, the injured part should be used gradually until full function is recovered. Ice compress should be done immediately after the injury. Ice bag should be placed over the injured area for only 15 minutes every 4 hours. Avoid leaving the ice bag on the wrist for more than 15 minutes as this can cause vasoconstriction which can hinder blood flow and healing. Compress the wrist with the use of an elastic bandage. This immobilizes the joint for a while. Avoid too much compression as this can cut off the blood circulation. Elevate the wrist a pillow up so to decrease the swelling on the wrist by flow of gravity.
Prevention is always better than cure. Prevention of sprain includes wearing of protective gears when engaging in activities that might cause the said injury.
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