Fractured or Sprained Wrist? Symptoms, Treatment, and When to See a Hand Specialist
Wrist injuries are A common reason people visit our clinic. A sudden fall, sports injury, or even a simple twist can leave you with pain, swelling, and limited motion. But how do you know if you have a fracture or a sprain? At the Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio, our specialists are here to help you understand the difference and guide you to the right care.
Fractured or Sprained Wrist: What’s the Difference?
A fractured wrist means one or more of the wrist bones are broken. The most common is a distal radius fracture, often caused by landing on an outstretched hand.
A sprained wrist happens when the ligaments, the strong bands of tissue that connect bones, are stretched or torn. Sprains are usually caused by twisting injuries, falls, or impacts.
While both conditions cause pain and swelling, fractures involve bone damage, while sprains affect soft tissue.
Common Symptoms
Possible signs of a fractured wrist include:
Sharp pain immediately after injury
Swelling and bruising
Visible deformity or bent appearance
Difficulty or inability to move the wrist
Possible signs of a sprained wrist include:
Mild to moderate pain
Swelling and tenderness
Bruising around the wrist
Pain with certain movements, but no obvious deformity
Because symptoms overlap, the only way to know for sure is through an exam and X-rays performed by a specialist.
It is important to consult a physician if you are experiencing any of these symptoms as soon as possible in order to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, and to prevent further damage.
Fractured Wrist Treatment in San Antonio
At the Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio, we provide individualized fractured wrist treatment in San Antonio. Depending on the severity, treatment may include:
Splinting or casting to keep the bone stable
Closed reduction (gently realigning the bone)
Surgical fixation with plates or screws for displaced fractures
Certified hand therapy to restore strength and motion after immobilization
Our goal is to ensure your wrist heals correctly, preventing long-term stiffness or loss of function.
Sprained Wrist Treatment in San Antonio
For sprains, the focus is on reducing pain and allowing ligaments to heal. Our team provides sprained wrist treatment in San Antonio that may include:
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
Bracing or splinting for support
Anti-inflammatory medications
Certified hand therapy with exercises to restore strength and flexibility
Severe sprains may require advanced care if ligaments are torn or instability develops in the wrist joint.
When to See a Hand Specialist
It can be difficult to tell if you have a fractured or sprained wrist without an exam. You should see a hand specialist right away if you experience severe pain or swelling that doesn’t improve with rest, notice a visible deformity or bent appearance of the wrist, feel numbness, tingling, or weakness in your fingers, or find yourself unable to move or bear weight on the wrist. Getting care quickly prevents complications and ensures the best outcome.
If you’re unsure whether you have a fractured or sprained wrist, don’t wait.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, schedule an appointment with one of our hand specialists at The Hand & Upper Extremity Center in San Antonio today.
Contact us today to learn more about our services, our facilities, and how we can help create a treatment plan that enables you to heal and regain full mobility of your wrist.