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Wrist Sprains and Strains
The definitions of sprains and strains are similar, and both tend to result in pain and swelling. A sprain is the stretching or tearing of a ligament, which attaches the muscle to the bone; a strain is an overstretching or tearing of a tendon or muscle, which can be partial or, in severe cases, complete.
Sprains to wrist ligaments are often caused by falls - or "catching" oneself from a fall, by sudden or abrupt movements or from contact while playing sports. Strains result from activities that cause the muscles to suddenly stretch or contract, such as lifting a heavy object - especially if the muscle is not warmed up. Be sure to determine what caused the sprain/strain and discontinue that activity - and be seen by a Health Care Professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
The R.I.C.E. protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is often recommended immediately after sustaining a mild to moderate sprain or strain, perhaps accompanied by an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen. But if the sprain or strain is more serious, your Health Care Professional may prescribe immobilizing the wrist with a splint or brace.
If your wrist sprain resulted from a fall, poor balance may have been involved. You may be advised to help reduce your risk of injury (or of re-injury) by committing to an overall physical conditioning program that includes a focus on balance, stretching and strengthening exercises. If you have injured your wrist it pays to pace yourself as you return to your regular activities or add new ones.
This is where the "P" for protection comes into the emerging P.R.I.C.E. protocol. Protect your wrist while healing from an injury, and for some time afterwards by supporting the injured wrist with a brace, wrap, taping or bandaging.
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