Key points about wrist ligament injury
- Involves stretching or tearing of wrist-supporting ligaments
- Often caused by trauma, falls, or repetitive stress
- May lead to instability, pain, and weakness
- Diagnosed through exam and imaging
- Treated with rest, splinting, or surgery depending on severity
Common related conditions
Wrist ligament injury causes
- Fall on an outstretched hand
- Sudden wrist twisting or bending
- Repetitive stress from sports or work
- High-impact contact during activity
- Overloading the joint during heavy lifting
Wrist ligament injury risk factors
- Participation in high-impact or wrist-heavy sports
- Poor wrist strength or flexibility
- Inadequate protective gear during activities
- Previous sprains or ligament injuries
- Aging-related wear on ligaments
Wrist ligament injury symptoms
- Pain with movement or gripping
- Swelling and tenderness near the joint
- Clicking, popping, or joint instability
- Weak grip strength
- Limited wrist motion or stiffness
Wrist ligament injury diagnosis
- Physical exam to check for tenderness and instability
- X-rays to rule out fractures or joint misalignment
- MRI or ultrasound to visualize ligament tears
- Arthroscopy in some cases for detailed evaluation
Wrist ligament injury treatment
- Rest, ice, and splinting to protect the joint
- NSAIDs to manage pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy for strengthening and mobility
- Bracing for support during recovery
- Surgical repair if there is a complete tear or persistent instability
When to seek care
- If wrist pain worsens or doesn’t improve within a few days
- If there’s noticeable swelling, bruising, or loss of motion
- If the wrist feels unstable or frequently “gives out”
- If you hear clicking or popping during wrist movement
- If symptoms interfere with work, sports, or daily tasks