Sprained Wrist

Sprained Wrist Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. A sprained wrist is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments in the wrist are stretched or torn due to an accident or overuse. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we have the best hand and wrist surgeons in Dubai, skilled in diagnosing and treating a range of wrist injuries, including sprains. Our comprehensive approach combines advanced diagnostic tools with personalized treatment plans to ensure optimal recovery and restore function to the wrist.

• Know About Sprained Wrist
• Symptoms & Causes
• Diagnosis & Treatment

Know About Sprained Wrist

A sprained wrist results from damage to the ligaments that support the wrist joint. Ligaments are tough, elastic bands of tissue that connect bones together and provide stability to the joint. When the wrist is twisted or bent in an unusual manner, these ligaments can be stretched beyond their normal range, leading to a sprain. Sprains can vary in severity from mild stretching to complete tears of the ligaments.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a sprained wrist can vary depending on the severity of the injury but generally include:

1. Pain: Pain around the wrist is a common symptom, which may be sharp and intense immediately after the injury or become dull and achy over time.
2. Swelling: The wrist often becomes swollen and may appear puffy or larger than usual.
3. Bruising: Discoloration around the wrist may develop as blood vessels break and leak beneath the skin.
4. Limited Range of Motion: Movement of the wrist may be restricted, and activities requiring wrist movement can be painful.
5. Tenderness: The wrist may feel tender to the touch, especially in areas where ligaments are damaged.

Causes

The causes of a sprained wrist typically involve sudden or excessive force applied to the wrist, such as:

1. Falls: Landing on an outstretched hand during a fall is a common cause of wrist sprains.
2. Sports Injuries: Activities involving rapid movements or impacts, such as basketball, football, or gymnastics, can lead to wrist sprains.
3. Accidents: Any accident that involves a sudden jolt or twist of the wrist, such as a car accident or slip, can cause a sprain.
4. Overuse: Repetitive stress from activities such as typing or playing certain sports can lead to overuse injuries, resulting in a sprain.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of a sprained wrist. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our diagnostic process includes:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: We start with a detailed assessment of the patient’s medical history and symptoms. A physical examination helps identify pain points, swelling, and range of motion limitations.
2. Imaging Studies:
   • X-rays: Used to rule out fractures or other bone injuries that may present with similar symptoms to a sprain.
   • MRI or Ultrasound: Provides detailed images of the soft tissues, including ligaments, to assess the extent of the sprain and identify any tears or damage.
3. Functional Tests: We may conduct tests to evaluate wrist function and determine the impact of the sprain on daily activities.

Treatment

Treatment for a sprained wrist depends on the severity of the injury and aims to reduce pain, minimize swelling, and restore normal function. Common treatment options include:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
   • Rest and Immobilization: Keeping the wrist immobilized with a splint or brace to prevent further injury and allow healing.
   • Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the wrist to reduce swelling and numb pain, usually for 15-20 minutes every few hours during the first 48 hours after the injury.
   • Compression: Using an elastic bandage to compress the wrist and help control swelling.
   • Elevation: Keeping the wrist elevated above heart level to reduce swelling.
   • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
2. Rehabilitation:
   • Physical Therapy: After the initial pain and swelling subside, physical therapy exercises may be recommended to improve wrist strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
3. Surgical Treatments:
   • Surgery: In severe cases where there is significant ligament damage or associated fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the ligaments and restore wrist function.