Our wrists may be taken for granted when something like an apparently small sprain or injury occurs. This part of our body should not be overlooked, however, since we depend on it for nearly every aspect of our lives. Whether it’s working on the computer or lifting up bags, our wrist are the primary tool. If you doubt this, consider that coaches tell their players it’s “all in the wrist” to get the right spin on a ball.

If you have ever suffered a sore wrist, you know the importance of this body part. If left ignored, the problem may become worse over time. It may even affect the future quality of life if it turns into a chronic problem. Simple tasks may become overwhelming with a tender wrist, and the over the counter pain relief is not safe for the long term. Getting help to deal with the pain is important.

Keep in mind that the wrist pain may degenerate into a worse condition over time. The wrist can be an indicator of worse medical conditions. This may include carpal tunnel, gout, arthritis, cysts or fractures or sprains. You should definitely get treatment as quickly as possible for the best chance of recovery.

RICE TREATMENT PROTOCOL

The at home elements for treating a sore wrist are meant to work in conjunction with medical care. The purpose of RICE treatment is to relieve pain and promote healing, while avoiding a recurring incidence of the injury. These treatments may apply to injuries or arthritis pain.

Through rest and modified activities, your pain may be alleviated. Considered the “critical time”, you may need to wrap your wrist in a sling or splint. Modify activities so you don’t cause additional stress to the injury.

* I stands for ice and heat application. So, which should you use? Generally speaking, ice packs are used for acute injuries while heat pads are utilized for chronic conditions. If you use an ice pack, you must never expose your injured wrist to the cold for more than 20 minutes at a time.

* C stands for compression and cortisone injections. During early treatment, compression is used to keep the muscles and tendons as stable as possible. Of course, you have to make sure that your wrist does not become cold and blue from a too-tight compression bandage. Cortisone injections are administered by your doctor, which should treat the inflammation, if any, in a sore wrist.

Elevating the wrist above the heart is also another good method for dealing with wrist pain. Use a sling during the day, and during the night, elevate with a pillow.

The RICE method is only supposed to be used in conjunction with medical treatment, as either first aid or after-care for injuries. When your wrist does not seem to be responding positively to the above protocols, then contact your doctor for further evaluation.

A wrist injury may not seem like a big deal, but ignoring it can quickly turn it into one. Keep in mind that with all the activities your wrist is responsible for, your livelihood, and even your life, may be affected with a wrist injury.

Tom Nicholson has spent years helping sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome. Please follow this link to find out more regarding having asore wrist.