How to Tape a Sprained Wrist

A sprain may occur if a person overextends the range of movement pertaining to the wrist. Although the wrist injury isn't a broken bone; the wrist may be extremely painful and will need careful attention. The following article gives directions on how you may tend the injury.

Things You'll Need

• Bandage
• Sling

Instructions

1. Immobilizing the sprained wrist is important so as not to compound the injury by knocking it against an object. Bandage the wrist first by wrapping an elastic bandage around the injured wrist twice, crossing the palm with the bandage at an angle between the thumb and forefinger and wrapping it around the wrist once again. Wrap the bandage once more between the thumb and forefinger and one more time around the wrist. Clip or safety pin the end of the bandage to two thicknesses of material to hold the dressing securely in place.

2. Placing the arm in a sling will ensure the wrist gets rested as much as possible which will enable the injury to heal quickly. Adjust the sling to a comfortable, relaxed position to accommodate your injury with plenty of support from the wrist to the hand.

3. Remove the sling for sleeping although you may wish to keep the sling in place if it is more comfortable for your injury. Remove the sling and the bandage for bathing and showering making sure someone is available to help you get out of the tub. Replace bandage and sling after putting on your clothes.

Tips & Warnings

• Cold packs may bring down the swelling and ease pain

• Elevate injured appendage as much as possible