Treating a Sore Wrist Effectively

By Tom Nicholson

Our wrists may be taken for granted when something like an apparently small sprain or injury occurs. This part of our body should not be overlooked, however, since we depend on it for nearly every aspect of our lives. Whether it's working on the computer or lifting up bags, our wrist are the primary tool. If you doubt this, consider that coaches tell their players it's "all in the wrist" to get the right spin on a ball.

If your wrist has become sore, the obvious importance of this body part should indicate that it needs immediate treatment. If ignored, the condition may get worst. Future quality of life may be affected when dealing with pain from a tender wrist. The simplest of tasks may become impossible since the wrist pain will be ever-present. Since it's not safe to take too many over-the-counter drugs, seeking medical help to manage or repair the source of pain is imperative.

Pain that start small may get worse over time. A tender or sore wrist is possibly an indicator of a worse problem. Possibilities include gout, arthritis, carpal tunnel, cysts, sprains or fractures. Having a medical professional evaluate you as soon as possible can head off future problems. When treating your wrist, you may be told to use the RICE method.

RICE TREATMENT PROTOCOL

When beginning at home treatments for your sore wrist, the primary goals are to relieve pain, promote healing and avoid a recurring incidence of injury. This at home treatment will apply to most cases from a wrist injury related to repetitive stress injury or arthritis related pain.

Through rest and modified activities, your pain may be alleviated. Considered the "critical time", you may need to wrap your wrist in a sling or splint. Modify activities so you don't cause additional stress to the injury.

* I stands for ice and heat application. So, which should you use? Generally speaking, ice packs are used for acute injuries while heat pads are utilized for chronic conditions. If you use an ice pack, you must never expose your injured wrist to the cold for more than 20 minutes at a time.

Compression is utilized to keep the muscles stable. During this stage, there may also be a cortisone injection to amp up muscle power. Make sure that any bandaging is not so tight that your wrist becomes blue or cold.

* E stands for elevate. You have elevate your injured wrist higher than your heart, when and where possible. This can usually be done by placing pillows underneath your arms while sleeping.

The RICE treatment is only applicable as a first aid and in after care scenarios. If your feel that an injury is not responding to RICE protocols, then seek medical help as soon as possible.

While it may not seem like a big deal today, a sore wrist may be a long term problem if ignored. Your livelihood - and even your life - may depend on how well your wrist is working. Keep it flexing at its best. - 30540

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here