Managing Ligament Injuries: Effective Strategies for Wrist Pain Relief

Ligament injury

Hello doctor, about 10 years ago I injured my wrist but didn't pay much attention to it, thinking it was fine.
Now I have pain in my left wrist (on the left side and above).
I had an X-ray done, and the bones are fine.
Later, I consulted another doctor who said I have a ligament injury, so I bought a wrist brace.
It feels okay when it's on, but when I take it off, even slight movement causes pain.
Just now, I wasn't careful and lifted something heavy, and now my entire wrist and fingers are numb and I can't move them.
I soaked them in ice water and then in warm water, which helped a bit.
What should I do?

Yang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/05

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

If X-rays have ruled out any skeletal issues, it is more likely to be a problem with soft tissues such as tendons or ligaments.
You can start by applying a warm compress or soaking in hot water to alleviate the pain, and use protective gear.
If there is still no improvement, it is advisable to visit a qualified orthopedic or rehabilitation clinic for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2018/06/05

More Info

Managing ligament injuries, particularly in the wrist, can be challenging but there are effective strategies to alleviate pain and promote healing. Based on your description, it seems you have been dealing with wrist pain for an extended period, and the recent incident of lifting heavy objects has exacerbated your condition. Here’s a comprehensive approach to managing your wrist pain and promoting recovery.

Understanding Your Condition
From your account, it appears that you may have sustained a ligament injury in your wrist, which is often characterized by pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Ligament injuries can occur due to repetitive strain, trauma, or improper lifting techniques. The fact that your X-ray showed no fractures is a positive sign, but it does not rule out soft tissue injuries such as ligament sprains or tears.

Immediate Management
1. Rest: It is crucial to give your wrist adequate rest, especially after the recent aggravation from lifting heavy objects. Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Use an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed, especially in the first 48 hours after the injury.

3. Compression: Using a wrist brace or wrap can provide support and limit movement, which is essential for healing. It can also help reduce swelling.

4. Elevation: Keeping your wrist elevated above heart level can help decrease swelling. Prop your wrist up on pillows when resting.

Pain Management
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

Rehabilitation Strategies
1. Physical Therapy: Once the acute pain subsides, consider seeing a physical therapist. They can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your needs, focusing on strengthening the wrist and improving flexibility.

2. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Once cleared by a healthcare professional, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore function. Start with range-of-motion exercises and gradually progress to strengthening exercises as tolerated.

3. Heat Therapy: After the initial inflammation has decreased, applying heat can help relax and loosen tissues and stimulate blood flow to the area. Use a warm towel or heating pad for 15-20 minutes.

Long-term Management
1. Ergonomics: Evaluate your daily activities and make ergonomic adjustments to prevent further injury. This includes proper lifting techniques and using supportive equipment when necessary.

2. Gradual Return to Activities: When you start feeling better, gradually return to your normal activities. Avoid rushing back into heavy lifting or repetitive wrist movements until you are fully healed.

3. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your symptoms. If pain persists or worsens, or if you experience numbness or tingling in your fingers, seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of nerve involvement or more severe ligament damage.

When to Seek Further Medical Attention
If your symptoms do not improve with conservative management, or if you experience significant swelling, persistent pain, or loss of function, it may be necessary to consult an orthopedic specialist. They may recommend advanced imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess the extent of the ligament injury and determine the best course of treatment, which could include injections or, in rare cases, surgical intervention.

In summary, managing ligament injuries in the wrist involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, elevation, pain management, and rehabilitation. By following these strategies and monitoring your symptoms, you can effectively manage your wrist pain and promote healing. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options tailored to your specific situation.

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