Rehabilitation Options for Wrist Injuries After a Fall

Wrist sprain from push-ups?

Hello, doctor.
On December 10, 2008, I injured my wrist in a car accident when I "braced myself with my right hand." It has been over three months, and it still hasn't healed.
Currently, when I move my hand up and down, my wrist still hurts.
Normally, the wrist can flex and extend to about 90 degrees (similar to these two symbols └ and ┌, where the vertical line represents the hand and the horizontal line represents the elbow), but my injured wrist can only achieve about 75 degrees.
If I try to force it, it causes pain.
Is it possible for my wrist to heal through rehabilitation? What rehabilitation methods are available? By the way, a few days ago, when I soaked in a hot spring, my wrist could almost reach 90 degrees while being warmed up, but 20 minutes after soaking, my wrist lost that flexibility again.
Thank you for taking the time to read my lengthy question, as I am really very worried!

Xiao Yi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/03/24

Dr. Li Weiqiang reply Rehabilitation

Dear Xiao Yi,
Hello, based on your description, it seems that the soft tissue injury in your wrist has not fully healed.
I recommend visiting a nearby rehabilitation clinic for further evaluation.
They can arrange for hand therapy and joint mobility training to enhance hand function.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Li Wei-Chiang
Director, Rehabilitation Department
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2009/03/24

More Info

Rehabilitation for wrist injuries, especially after a fall or accident, can be a complex process that requires patience and a tailored approach. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing limited range of motion and pain in your wrist, which is not uncommon following such injuries. Here’s a comprehensive overview of rehabilitation options and considerations for your wrist injury.

Understanding Your Injury
From your account, it appears that your wrist has not fully healed, which is indicated by the pain and limited range of motion (75 degrees instead of the normal 90 degrees). This could be due to several factors, including soft tissue damage, ligament sprains, or even potential fractures that may not have been fully addressed initially. The fact that heat therapy (like soaking in hot water) temporarily improves your range of motion suggests that your wrist may benefit from increased blood flow and relaxation of the muscles and tendons.

Rehabilitation Options
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging with a physical therapist is one of the most effective ways to rehabilitate your wrist. A therapist can create a personalized rehabilitation program that includes:
- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and mobility exercises can help improve flexibility. These should be done within a pain-free range to avoid exacerbating your injury.

- Strengthening Exercises: Once you regain some mobility, strengthening exercises can help rebuild the muscles around the wrist. This may include using resistance bands or light weights.

- Functional Activities: Gradually incorporating activities that mimic daily tasks can help you regain confidence and functionality in your wrist.

2. Heat and Cold Therapy: As you’ve experienced, heat can help relax muscles and improve blood flow, which may temporarily alleviate stiffness. Cold therapy can be beneficial post-exercise to reduce inflammation and pain. Alternating between heat and cold can be effective.

3. Splinting or Bracing: Depending on the severity of your injury, a splint or brace may be recommended to stabilize your wrist during the healing process. This can help prevent further injury while allowing for some movement.

4. Occupational Therapy: If your wrist injury affects your ability to perform daily tasks, an occupational therapist can provide strategies and tools to help you adapt and regain independence.

5. Gradual Return to Activities: It’s crucial to gradually return to activities that involve wrist use. Start with low-impact activities and slowly increase intensity as your wrist allows.

Monitoring Progress
It’s essential to monitor your progress closely. If you notice that your pain increases or your range of motion does not improve with rehabilitation, it may be necessary to revisit your healthcare provider. They might recommend imaging studies (like an MRI or ultrasound) to assess the soft tissues and ligaments around your wrist.

When to Seek Further Medical Attention
If you experience significant pain, swelling, or any new symptoms, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. Persistent issues may require further evaluation, possibly including corticosteroid injections or even surgical intervention if there are structural problems.

Conclusion
In summary, rehabilitation for your wrist injury is certainly possible and can lead to significant improvements in function and pain relief. Engaging with a physical therapist, utilizing heat and cold therapy, and gradually returning to activities are all key components of a successful rehabilitation plan. Remember to be patient with yourself, as recovery can take time, and it’s important to listen to your body throughout the process. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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