How do you treat a wrist injury?

When a wrist injury takes place, the exact condition of the injury cannot be determined immediately. Visible deformity, severe pain, numbness, restriction in movement of the wrist, and inability to maintain the grip are some visible signs of a possible fracture. Minimize or completely stop the movements of the arm or wrist.

As the first aid, support the injured arm and wrist with splint using a ruler, stick, or a sling using clothes and immediately see a doctor. The sudden impact or hit of the hand on the hard ground and the weight of the body getting transmitted to the hand, makes the ligaments get injured resulting in wrist sprain.

To treat a wrist injury:

• Apply ice therapy to the broken wrist for fifteen minutes for four to six times a day.
• Apply compression wrap.
• To relieve the pain and swelling, apply a packet of frozen vegetables or crushed ice in a wet cloth to the painful area. For maximum effect, apply for up to 20 minutes, every 2 hours. If any uncomfortable feeling persists, remove the ice. Don't apply the ice directly to the skin.
• Keep the wrist elevated above the heart level.
• Use of splint is advisable. However, it should be removed during the night.
• Complete rest is needed for the wrist. However, try to move your shoulders and elbows.
• Immobilization of wrist is very important for quick healing of the injury.
• Take over-the-counter medication.
• If the numbness in hand and wrist continues even after two to three days, they should be treated immediately. On the other hand, if the movement of the wrist is restored after three or four days, try to do some stretching exercises.