A sprained wrist is a common injury that can be caused by a fall or sports injury. Symptoms of a sprained wrist include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness to touch, and a feeling of warmth around the wrist. Here are some things you can do to treat a sprained wrist:

• Rest: Try not to use your wrist for at least 48 hours.
• Ice: Apply ice immediately after the injury to keep the swelling down. Use cold packs for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Do not apply ice directly on the skin.
• Compression: Wear an elastic compression bandage to reduce swelling.
• Elevation: As often as possible, rest with your wrist raised up higher than your heart.

Additionally, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. Moderate sprains may need to be immobilized with a wrist splint for one week or more. Because immobilization may cause some stiffness in your wrist, your doctor may recommend some stretching exercises to help you regain full mobility. It is best if you see a physical or occupational therapist to guide a program specific to your condition.

It is important not to rush things and to avoid returning to your old level of physical activity until you feel no pain in your wrist when its at rest, you can work out and grip and move objects without pain, and your injured wrist, as well as the hand and arm on that side, feel as strong as the other side. If pain and swelling persist for more than 48 hours, see a doctor.