Wrist injuries following a car accident or workplace injury can have a variety of symptoms, depending on the severity of the damage. Typically, wrist pain with bruising and swelling is often a sign of an injury. Identifying these symptoms early can help you receive the proper treatment and avoid long-term complications.

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Stiffness
• Instability
• Numbness/Tingling
• Inability to Bear Weight
• Visible Deformity

Wrist injuries are diagnosed through a thorough process that involves evaluating the symptoms, medical history, and using various diagnostic tests to determine the severity and cause of the injury. Here's a detailed breakdown of how wrist injuries are diagnosed:

Physical Examination

• The healthcare provider will begin by examining the wrist, checking for visible signs such as swelling, bruising, or deformity. They'll also gently palpate (press) on the wrist to identify areas of tenderness or pain, which helps pinpoint the injury.
• The provider will assess the range of motion in the wrist, asking you to move it in different directions. If movement is limited or painful, it can help determine the type of injury, such as a sprain, strain, or fracture.
• The wrist’s strength will also be tested, particularly if the injury involves ligaments or tendons. Weakness or instability may suggest more severe damage.

Medical History

• A detailed history of the injury is essential. Your doctor will ask how the injury occurred (e.g., fall, car accident, repetitive motions), the timeline of symptoms, and any previous wrist injuries. This information helps guide the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Imaging Tests

• X-rays: These are often the first step in diagnosing wrist injuries. X-rays are particularly useful for detecting fractures, dislocations, or bone abnormalities. They give clear images of the bones, allowing the doctor to identify breaks or shifts in bone alignment.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): If soft tissue damage is suspected—such as ligament tears, tendon injuries, or cartilage damage—an MRI may be ordered. It provides detailed images of the soft tissues around the wrist and can identify injuries not visible on X-rays.
• CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: A CT scan may be used if the X-ray results are inconclusive or if the fracture is complex. It offers detailed cross-sectional images of bones and soft tissues, helping doctors better assess intricate fractures.
• Ultrasound: Sometimes used for soft tissue injuries or inflammation, ultrasound is helpful in assessing the condition of tendons, ligaments, or muscles, especially in cases of repetitive stress injuries or overuse.

Nerve Tests

• If there’s a concern about nerve compression (such as in carpal tunnel syndrome), the doctor may perform physical tests like Tinel's sign or Phalen’s test. These tests involve tapping or holding the wrist in certain positions to see if it causes tingling or numbness in the fingers, indicating nerve pressure.
• Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles and nerves. It can be used to evaluate the function of the median nerve in cases of carpal tunnel syndrome or other nerve-related issues.

Diagnostic Injection

• In some cases, a doctor might use a diagnostic injection, such as a local anesthetic, into specific areas of the wrist. If the injection temporarily relieves pain, it can confirm the source of the pain (e.g., a joint or ligament).

By combining these examination methods and diagnostic tests, your healthcare provider can accurately determine the type and severity of your wrist injury. This ensures a targeted treatment approach, whether it's rest, physical therapy, bracing, or more invasive treatments like surgery.

Once diagnosed, appropriate treatment can be determined based on the patient’s injury type and severity:

Sprained Wrist Treatment

For a sprained wrist, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is often recommended. Wrist sprains are common injuries, and over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage pain and swelling. More severe sprains may require the use of a splint or brace to immobilize the wrist.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatments

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome includes:

• Wrist splints to prevent wrist movement, especially at night
• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
• Physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the wrist
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

Broken Wrist Treatment

Fractures often require immobilization with a cast or splint. Severe fractures may require surgical intervention to realign the bones. Post-treatment physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

Exercises to Improve Range of Motion

Strengthening exercises, such as wrist stretches, resistance band workouts, or using a stress ball, can improve wrist flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. Regular exercises to improve muscle tone and tendon strength are essential in supporting the wrist during daily tasks and physical activities.

Ergonomic Considerations in Daily Activities

Be mindful of your wrist posture while typing, using a mouse, or lifting objects. Ergonomic adjustments such as wrist supports, proper seating posture, and regular breaks can help reduce strain on your wrists and prevent injuries.

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome varies depending on the severity of the condition. Conservative treatments include wrist splints to prevent wrist motion during sleep and over-the-counter pain relief medications. In cases where symptoms persist, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation. If these measures fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

Caring for a broken wrist requires prompt medical attention. Treatment typically involves immobilizing the wrist with a cast or splint to ensure proper alignment and healing of the bones. Severe fractures may require surgical intervention to realign the bones. Physical therapy is often recommended post-treatment to restore strength and improve range of motion in the wrist.

Our team of experienced healthcare professionals provides expert diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation services to restore wrist health. We understand how challenging it can be to deal with pain and discomfort, especially when it interferes with your ability to perform daily tasks or return to work. That’s why we tailor our treatment plans to meet your unique needs and ensure that you receive the best possible care at every stage of your recovery.

The first step in your recovery journey is a thorough evaluation of your injury. Our medical team uses the latest diagnostic tools, such as X-rays, MRIs, and physical exams, to accurately assess the extent of your wrist injury. Whether you’ve suffered a sprain, fracture, or developed carpal tunnel syndrome due to repetitive work motions, we will pinpoint the cause of your pain and determine the most effective treatment plan.

We offer a variety of treatment options, all designed to address the specific type of wrist injury you're dealing with. Our treatments include:

• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation is a key component of wrist injury recovery. Our team of skilled physical therapists will work with you on exercises and stretches to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your wrist. Through targeted physical therapy, we help rebuild the muscles and tissues that were affected by the injury.
• Surgical Referral (if necessary): In more severe cases, where fractures or dislocations are involved, we work closely with our network of orthopedic specialists to determine if surgical intervention is required. We’ll be with you throughout the process, ensuring that you receive the care and support needed before, during, and after surgery.
• Bracing and Splinting: If your injury requires immobilization, we will use a splint or brace to provide support and protect the injured area during the healing process.

At Accident and Injury Rehab Center, our goal is not just to treat your wrist injury but to help you regain full functionality so you can return to your everyday activities without pain or limitations. After your injury has been treated, our rehabilitation programs focus on strengthening your wrist, restoring flexibility, and preventing future injuries.

Our dedicated team will guide you through every phase of recovery, ensuring that your wrist is healing properly and that you're progressing at a pace that’s right for you. We also emphasize injury prevention, teaching you techniques and exercises to keep your wrist strong and healthy moving forward.

For more information about our services, contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can help with your wrist injury recovery.