The wrist is an intricate part of the human body. It is made up of eight small carpal bones, two long bones that connect to the forearm, and four main ligaments.
An injury to the wrist can be detrimental to daily life. It’s, unfortunately, relatively common. 25% of sports-related injuries happen in the hand or wrist. However, wrists can also be injured at work or in everyday life accidents.
When a wrist injury occurs, it’s important to assess how serious it is. This way, you can ensure you’re getting the proper care. Here’s how to tell if a wrist is fractured or sprained.
Fracture vs Sprain
Though both types of injuries, fractures and sprains are not the same. It’s important to understand the difference between the two. Here’s the difference between a fracture and a sprain.
What is a Fracture?
A fracture is diagnosed as a break or a crack in the bone. These are more serious medical conditions. It’s important to seek medical attention if you suspect a fracture.
Healing a fracture may require a cast, brace, or sling to help it heal. In more extreme cases, a fracture may require surgery to repair.
What is a Sprain?
Sprains are injuries to the ligaments, which are tissues that connect bones together inside a joint. Sprains can occur when the tissues are stretched or torn.
Sprains tend to be a less serious injury than fractures. In many cases, rest, ice, compression, and elevation, along with over-the-counter pain relievers, can be enough for treatment.
Fractured Wrist Symptoms
You can assess your wrist injury symptoms to determine if you have a fracture. If your wrist made a grinding, crunching, or cracking sound when you injured it, there’s a good chance it is a fracture.
Your hand will often feel weak, and movement will be highly affected if you have a fracture. There might be gradual or mild swelling. Or if the wrist looks deformed or unnaturally bent, it’s likely a fracture.
Sprained Wrist Symptoms
Though sprains may be a less severe injury, they should still be taken seriously. At the time of an injury, a sprain can cause a popping sound; however, it can also not cause a sound at all.
After the injury, you can expect the hand to feel weak and have little but uncomfortable movement in the wrist. Swelling can be much quicker and more noticeable compared to a fracture.
What to Do If You Injure Your Wrist
Diagnosing wrist injuries at home can be useful initially. However, you’ll want a professional to make the final call, especially if you’re experiencing numbness or pain.
Professional treatment for wrist injuries will ensure they heal properly. If you suspect a serious injury, see a doctor or orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible.
Guide for How To Tell if a Wrist Is Fractured or Sprained
Wrists, in general, are essential for daily tasks. That’s why injuries can be so detrimental. Learning how to tell if a wrist is fractured or sprained can help determine the next steps. Seeing a professional will help you get your wrist back to a healthy condition.
Idaho Shoulder 2 Hand offers advanced diagnostic and treatment solutions when caring for all patients. Dr. Nahavati is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 15 years of experience. Request an appointment today!
