Monday, November 30, 2009

How to Treat a Sore Wrist Effectively

By Tom Nicholson

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 your wrist has become sore, the obvious importance of this body part should indicate that it needs immediate treatment. If ignored, the condition may get worst. Future quality of life may be affected when dealing with pain from a tender wrist. The simplest of tasks may become impossible since the wrist pain will be ever-present. Since it's not safe to take too many over-the-counter drugs, seeking medical help to manage or repair the source of pain is imperative.

With such importance, you must always treat a sore wrist before it gets worst for many reasons. For one thing, your quality of life will be affected with the pain associated with a tender wrist. You probably will not be able to perform the simplest of tasks since wrist pain will be a constant presence in your life. Since taking too many over-the-counter painkillers is not good for your health, you have to seek medical opinion on how best to make the pain go away safely.

RICE TREATMENT

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.

Resting the sore wrist and modifying activities for at least 24-48 hours is most important during this time. Your wrist may be wrapped in a splint or sling. Modifying your activities to prevent stressing the wrist is important for the resting stage.

Ice and heat treatments may also help alleviate pain. Generally, you will use ice for an acute injury, and heat for a chronic condition. When using ice packs, limit use to 20 minutes per application.

Compression is wrapping the injury to provide stability. The bandaging should be applied so the area does not turn blue or become cold. The doctor may also elect to give a cortisone shot to provide steroids for the muscles to heal.

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.

Keep in mind that the RICE treatment protocol is applicable for first aid and after-care situations. As soon as you feel that your injured wrist is not responding to the RICE treatment, you must seek medical advice at once.

Indeed, a sore wrist may not look like much to worry about today but you have to be very careful that tomorrow, it will be as good as new. After all, your life may very well depend on how well your wrist works with and for you.

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