How to Treat a Sprained Wrist

Forgot your wrist guards when you went skating? Hit the boxing bag the wrong way? Here's how to reduce the pain, start healing - and decide if you need it checked out.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Elastic Bandage Tapes
• Heating Pads
• Ice Packs
• Ice packs
• Heating pads

1. Place an ice pack on the wrist as soon after the injury as possible - or better yet, an ice bandage, which can help immobilize the area. Wrap from the hand to the elbow, but be careful not to wrap so tight that it cuts off circulation.

2. Elevate the arm with a sling, or with a pillow if you can be stationary.

3. Rest the wrist.

4. Avoid heat while the area is swollen.

5. Use moist heat once the swelling subsides.

6. Begin using your wrist again gradually as the pain decreases.

Tips & Warnings

• It's sometimes difficult to tell a fracture and a sprain apart. If the pain and swelling are severe, if you can't move your hand, or if you have other concerns, seek medical care. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.

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[Jaker788]

on 10/21/2008 OFF TOPIC BUT CLOSE!!!
I tripped on the stairs this morning and landed on my ankle sideways it dident hurt to much at first but after 1 min it hurt very badly I limped to all my classes and it hurt very much (one of my fears is going to the school nurse) PE was hell but i lived though school I can be tough but that isent always good. tomorrow I will go with crutches!!!

on 11/22/2005 Wrap an Ace bandage (once or twice) around the injured area. Get a Ziploc bag half full with ice and set that on top of the Ace bandage. Continue wrapping the bandage around until you can clip it.