Wrist sprain – The Alex

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What is a wrist sprain?

A wrist sprain occurs when the strong ligaments that support the wrist stretch beyond their limits or tear. This occurs when the wrist is bent or twisted forcefully, such as when your child falls onto an outstretched hand. Wrist sprains are common injuries and range from mild to severe depending on how much damage there is to the ligaments.

What symptoms can I expect?

Swelling, pain, bruising and tenderness to touch are all normal symptoms of a sprained wrist. It is important for your child to rest their wrist after the injury to allow their symptoms to resolve. Gentle exercises (see opposite) are important to strengthen their wrist and enable a normal range of movement. Sometimes a splint is used to rest the joint in conjunction with your child’s exercises; splints should not be worn for more than 2 to 3 weeks.

We also recommend they take regular pain relief such as paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen.

Wrist exercises

1. Rest your forearm on a table and let your hand gently drop palm down over the edge. Gently assist the movement with your other hand. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat 5 times.
2. Next, gently push the palm of your hand back and extend until you feel a stretch. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat.
3. Squeeze a soft ball, rolled up bandage or folded up socks in the palm of your hand. You can also twist a tea towel in your hands as if you were wringing it out. Repeat 10 times.

Useful numbers

NHS 111 – 24hr advice line