Wrist Sprain Vs. Fracture: Key Differences

A wrist injury is a common occurrence, often resulting from falls or sports-related incidents. A wrist sprain involves ligament stretching or tearing, and it typically results from sudden impacts or twists. Conversely, a wrist fracture involves a break in one or more of the bones, such as the radius or ulna, that form the wrist joint. While both conditions cause pain and swelling, understanding the differences between a wrist sprain and a wrist fracture is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ever felt that sharp zinger in your wrist after a not-so-graceful dismount from your bike? Or maybe that dull ache that just won’t quit after a long day of typing? Wrist injuries are surprisingly common, and let’s be honest, they can really put a damper on your daily groove.

Your wrist, that amazing joint connecting your hand to your forearm, is a real workhorse. It’s not just one bone, but a whole team working together to let you wave, write, and maybe even attempt that ambitious yoga pose. It lets you be able to turn the doorknob, hold a cup of coffee, and give a thumbs up to that hilarious meme your friend just sent you. But all that twisting, bending, and lifting makes it vulnerable to a whole host of issues.

We’re talking sprains, fractures, TFCC tears (don’t worry, we’ll get to that!), and more. Understanding what can go wrong is the first step in taking care of these important joints. So, whether you’re a weekend warrior, a coding ninja, or just someone who occasionally trips over air, it’s super important to recognize when your wrist is trying to tell you something. Ignoring those nagging pains or brushing off that persistent swelling could lead to bigger problems down the road.

Think of this blog post as your friendly guide to all things wrist-related. We’ll break down the anatomy, explore common injuries, and, most importantly, help you understand when it’s time to ditch the DIY remedies and get yourself checked out by a pro. We’re gonna keep it real, keep it simple, and hopefully, keep you from making that wrist pain worse! From basic prevention to knowing when to seek professional help, we’ll cover it all so you can get back to doing what you love, pain-free!

Anatomy of the Wrist: A Closer Look

Ever wondered what makes your wrist such a flexible and functional part of your body? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of wrist anatomy! Understanding the wrist’s intricate structure – the bones, ligaments, tendons, and joint capsule – is key to appreciating how it functions and why it’s susceptible to injury.

Radius and Ulna: The Forearm Foundation

The radius and ulna, the two long bones in your forearm, aren’t just chilling out; they’re the wrist’s best friends! They create the foundation upon which the wrist moves and thrives. The radius takes the lead, bearing most of the force when you use your hand.

• Articulation with Carpal Bones: These bones connect to the carpal bones, forming the wrist joint. This articulation allows for a wide range of motion, from waving hello to expertly typing on your keyboard.

Carpal Bones: Eight Tiny Titans

Picture a collection of eight small, oddly shaped bones nestled together – that’s your carpal bones! They’re arranged in two rows, working in harmony to provide both stability and flexibility. Let’s meet them:

• Scaphoid: This little guy is located on the thumb side of your wrist and plays a major role in wrist movement. It’s also a common site for fractures.
• Lunate: Articulating directly with the radius, the lunate is crucial for smooth wrist motion.
• Triquetrum: Nestled next to the lunate, the triquetrum has important connections to other carpal bones and ligaments.
• Pisiform: The pisiform is a small, pea-shaped bone that acts as a sesamoid bone (a bone embedded in a tendon). It enhances the power of certain wrist muscles.
• Trapezium: On the thumb side, the trapezium forms a critical joint with the thumb, enabling gripping and pinching.
• Trapezoid: Wedged between the trapezium and capitate, the trapezoid helps maintain the wrist’s arch.
• Capitate: As the largest of the carpal bones, the capitate sits in the center of the wrist, acting as a key stabilizer.
• Hamate: Easily identifiable by its hook-like process, the hamate provides attachment points for ligaments and muscles.

Visual Aid: (Include a clear and labeled diagram or illustration of the carpal bones, highlighting each bone’s location and relationship to the others.)

Ligaments: The Wrist’s Glue

Ligaments are like the wrist’s super-strong glue, holding the bones together and providing stability. Without them, your wrist would be a wobbly mess!

• Scapholunate Ligament: This ligament is critical for maintaining carpal stability. An injury to this ligament can lead to wrist dysfunction.
• Radiocarpal Ligaments: Connecting the radius to the carpal bones, these ligaments ensure a solid connection between the forearm and wrist.
• Ulnocarpal Ligaments: These ligaments link the ulna to the carpal bones, providing stability on the pinky side of your wrist.

Tendons: The Movers and Shakers

Tendons are the strong, fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. In the wrist, tendons allow you to flex, extend, and deviate your wrist – all the movements necessary for everyday tasks!

• Key Tendons: These tendons include the flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor carpi radialis, extensor carpi ulnaris, and extensor carpi radialis longus and brevis.

Joint Capsule: The Protective Wrapper

The joint capsule is a fibrous sac that surrounds the wrist joint, providing stability and containing synovial fluid. This fluid lubricates the joint, allowing for smooth, pain-free movement. The joint capsule also contributes to overall wrist stability.

Common Types of Wrist Injuries

Okay, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of those pesky wrist injuries. Your wrist, that amazing joint that lets you type, throw a ball, and even just wave hello, is also surprisingly vulnerable. Let’s break down the most common culprits that can leave you saying, “Ouch!”

• Wrist Sprain: Imagine your wrist ligaments are like rubber bands holding everything together. A sprain happens when these “rubber bands” get stretched or torn, usually from a sudden impact or awkward twist. Think of it like tripping and trying to catch yourself – bam, wrist sprain!

  • Grading System: Sprains are graded from 1 to 3, depending on how severe the damage is:

    • Grade 1: Mild stretching of the ligaments. A little sore, but you can still move it.
    • Grade 2: Partial tear of the ligaments. More pain, some swelling, and limited movement.
    • Grade 3: Complete tear of the ligaments. Significant pain, swelling, instability, and you probably won’t be using that wrist anytime soon.

• Distal Radius Fracture: This is a fancy way of saying you’ve broken the end of your radius bone (one of the two big bones in your forearm) near the wrist. Ouch, again! These fractures are super common, especially when you fall on an outstretched hand – hence the acronym FOOSH (Fall On Out-Stretched Hand).

  • Colles’ Fracture: Picture falling forward and using your hand to break your fall. The broken end of the radius tilts upwards, giving your wrist a “dinner fork” or “spoon”-like deformity.
  • Smith’s Fracture: The opposite of a Colles’ fracture. Here, you fall on a flexed wrist (bending it inward), causing the broken end of the radius to tilt downwards.
  • Treatment Options: Depending on the severity, treatment can range from a cast or splint to surgery with plates and screws to put everything back in its place.

• Scaphoid Fracture: This one’s sneaky! The scaphoid is one of the small carpal bones in your wrist, and it’s notorious for being difficult to diagnose because sometimes the fracture doesn’t show up on initial X-rays. If you have pain in the thumb-side of your wrist after a fall, get it checked!

  • Importance of Early Diagnosis: Why the rush? The scaphoid has a poor blood supply, meaning it can struggle to heal properly. If it doesn’t heal (non-union), you could end up needing surgery down the road.
  • Mechanism of Injury: Usually, it’s another fall on an outstretched hand. Sound familiar?
• Ulnar Styloid Fracture: The ulnar styloid is the pointy bit of bone on the pinky-side of your wrist, at the end of your ulna (the other forearm bone). A fracture here often happens alongside other wrist injuries, like a distal radius fracture.
  • Potential Complications: This fracture can lead to ongoing pain, instability, and problems with grip strength.
• Carpal Bone Fractures: While the scaphoid gets most of the attention, any of the other carpal bones can fracture too. These are generally less common but can still cause significant pain and dysfunction.
• TFCC Tear: The Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) is a cartilage structure that stabilizes the wrist joint, especially when you rotate or grip. Think of it as a shock absorber and stabilizer all in one. Tearing it can be a real pain!
  • Role in Wrist Stability: A TFCC tear can make your wrist feel unstable, like it’s going to give way.
  • Causes and Symptoms: These tears can happen from a sudden injury (like a fall or twisting your wrist) or from repetitive motions over time. Symptoms include pain on the pinky side of your wrist, clicking or popping sensations, and difficulty with activities like turning a doorknob.

Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms of Wrist Injuries

Ignoring a whimper from your wrist is like ignoring a check engine light – it’s probably trying to tell you something! Understanding the signals your wrist sends is key to getting help early and preventing a minor hiccup from turning into a major problem. Let’s decode what your wrist might be whispering (or screaming!).

h3Pain

Is it a dull ache that just won’t quit? A sharp stab with every move? Pain is the wrist’s most common way of saying, “Hey, something’s not right!”

• Acute Pain: This is that sudden, sharp pain that pops up after an injury – like a fall or a nasty twist.
• Chronic Pain: This is the sneaky, long-lasting kind that can stick around for months. It might be a sign of something more serious, like arthritis or a nagging old injury that hasn’t healed properly.

h3Swelling

Imagine your wrist is a water balloon – if it’s suddenly puffing up, that’s swelling!

• Swelling happens when fluid builds up in the tissues around the injury. It’s your body’s way of trying to protect the area, but it can also limit how much you can move your wrist. Think of trying to write with a puffy glove on – not fun!

h3Bruising

Bruises are like little maps of the damage under your skin.

• When you injure your wrist, tiny blood vessels can break, causing blood to leak into the surrounding tissues. This creates that familiar black-and-blue mark. The color will change over time (purple, green, yellow), showing that your body is healing. But significant bruising after a wrist injury warrants a check-up.

h3Tenderness

If poking your wrist makes you wince, that’s tenderness.

• A healthcare professional can feel (palpate) your wrist to find exactly where it hurts the most. This helps to pinpoint the injured area, whether it’s a bone, ligament, or tendon.

h3Limited Range of Motion

Can’t flip your wrist like you used to?

• A wrist injury can make it tough to bend, twist, or rotate your wrist. Simple things like turning a doorknob, typing, or even brushing your teeth can become surprisingly difficult.

h3Instability

Ever feel like your wrist is about to give way? That’s instability.

• It’s that unsettling sensation that your wrist can’t support its weight or is about to buckle. This might happen because ligaments that normally hold the wrist bones together are damaged.

h3Deformity

Sometimes, what you see is what you get.

• If your wrist looks visibly crooked, bent, or out of alignment, it’s a big red flag. This could mean a fracture or dislocation, and it needs medical attention, pronto!

h3Numbness/Tingling

Is your wrist playing the “pins and needles” game?

• Numbness or tingling in your fingers or hand can mean that a nerve in your wrist is being pinched or compressed. This is often a sign of carpal tunnel syndrome, but it can also happen with other wrist injuries.
• The median nerve is commonly affected in carpal tunnel syndrome, but other nerves, like the ulnar nerve, can also be involved.

The Bottom Line: Listen to your wrists! Don’t shrug off any of these symptoms. The sooner you get checked out, the sooner you can get back to doing all the things you love without wrist pain.

Causes and Risk Factors: Who’s At Risk?

Okay, let’s talk about how you might end up with a bum wrist. Nobody wants a wrist injury, right? Understanding the causes and risk factors is half the battle in keeping those wrists happy and healthy. So, who’s really in the danger zone? Let’s dive in!

The Dreaded FOOSH (Fall On OutStretched Hand)

First up, we have the infamous FOOSH – that’s fancy medical talk for “Fall On OutStretched Hand”. Picture this: you’re tripping over your own feet (we’ve all been there!), and your natural instinct is to throw your hands out to break the fall. Bad idea for your wrists! All that force from your body weight slams into your wrist joint, and BAM! potential sprain, fracture, or worse. Think of your wrist as a crumple zone.

Sports: Where the Competition Isn’t Just With the Other Team

Ah, sports, we love them but our wrists maybe don’t. Many sports are notorious for putting wrists at risk. Skateboarders know the pain of landing wrong after a trick. Basketball players face jammed wrists from catching a bad pass. And gymnasts? Don’t even get me started on the pressure they put on their wrists during those crazy routines. If your sports involve repetitive movements, high-impact landings, or direct contact, you might be at a higher risk.

Trauma: Accidents Happen

Let’s face it: accidents happen. Whether it’s a car crash, a workplace mishap, or just plain bad luck, trauma can lead to wrist injuries. A direct impact to the wrist can cause fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue damage. It’s like a sudden, unexpected jolt to your wrist’s system.

Osteoporosis: When Bones Get Brittle

Now, let’s talk about something a little less obvious: osteoporosis. This condition weakens your bones, making them more prone to fractures. If you have osteoporosis, even a minor fall can result in a wrist fracture. It’s important to get regular bone density screenings, especially if you’re over 50 or have a family history of osteoporosis. Think of it as checking the structural integrity of your body’s foundation.

Repetitive Strain: The Silent Wrist Killer

Last but not least, we have repetitive strain. This is the villain of the office worker, the assembly line employee, and anyone who performs the same wrist movements over and over. Typing all day, every day? Watch out! This can lead to overuse injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome, where the median nerve in your wrist gets compressed. Ouch!

Carpal tunnel syndrome is like a traffic jam in your wrist, squeezing the nerve that controls feeling and movement in your hand. It can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in your fingers and hand.

Diagnosis: Unmasking the Mystery of Your Wrist Pain

So, your wrist is screaming at you, and you’re wondering what’s up? First off, you’re going to need a pro to take a look. Diagnosis of a wrist injury isn’t always a slam dunk; it’s a bit like detective work. The goal? To pinpoint exactly what’s causing your discomfort so you can get on the road to recovery ASAP! Here are the breadcrumbs doctors follow to solve the case.

Hands-On Investigation: The Physical Examination

Think of the physical examination as the first round of interviews. Your friendly healthcare provider will gently poke, prod, and move your wrist around. This isn’t just for fun (though some doctors might really enjoy it); it’s to assess a few key things:

• Range of Motion Testing: Can you wave goodbye to the pain? This checks how far you can bend, flex, and rotate your wrist. Restricted movement is a big clue.

• Palpation for Tenderness: Ouch! Where does it hurt the most? By pressing on specific areas, the doctor can identify the source of the pain and inflammation.

• Stability Tests: Feeling a bit wobbly? These tests assess the integrity of your ligaments. The doctor will gently stress the wrist joint to see if there’s any excessive movement, or that oh-no feeling of it wanting to give out.

X-Ray Vision: Spotting Bone Breaks

Next up, we call in the X-rays – the go-to for anything bone-related. An X-ray is like a snapshot of your wrist bones, showing:

• Fractures: Are any bones cracked, broken, or out of alignment?
• Dislocations: Are any bones where they shouldn’t be?
• Arthritis: Although it is much better for bone structure, it can give signs of joint damage or bone spurs.

X-rays are quick, relatively inexpensive, and usually the first line of defense, but remember, they can only see bones, and they don’t do so well on soft tissues.

MRI: The Soft Tissue Specialist

If the X-rays are clear but your wrist still feels like a crime scene, it’s time to bring in the MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). This is where you slide into a big tube, and it’s like getting a detailed, technicolor view of all the soft tissues. It’s amazing for diagnosing:

• Ligament Tears: Including that all-important scapholunate ligament we discussed earlier!
• TFCC Tears: This tricky cartilage can be a real pain (literally), and an MRI is the best way to spot a tear.
• Tendon Injuries: Damage to the tendons that allow wrist movement.
• Bone Bruises: Even if the bone isn’t broken, it can get bruised.

CT Scan: The Detailed Bone Map

For complex fractures or when more detail about the bones is needed, a CT scan (Computed Tomography) might be ordered. It’s like an X-ray on steroids! A CT scan provides:

• Detailed views of fractures: Especially useful for seeing how many pieces a bone is broken into and if there are any bone fragments.
• Assessing joint alignment: Very useful for seeing if the bones in the wrist are aligned normally.

Arthroscopy: The Inside Look

If the mystery still isn’t solved or if surgery is being considered, arthroscopy might be the next step. It’s a minimally invasive procedure where a tiny camera is inserted into your wrist joint. Think of it like a sneak peek inside! Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to:

• Directly visualize the joint: See the ligaments, cartilage, and bones up close and personal.
• Diagnose problems that can’t be seen on imaging: Sometimes, a problem is only visible with direct visualization.
• Perform surgery at the same time: If a problem is found, it can often be fixed during the same procedure.

Important Note: Getting the right diagnosis is KEY to getting the right treatment. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for yourself. A healthy wrist is a happy wrist!

Treatment Options: From RICE to Surgery

So, you’ve hurt your wrist? Bummer! Now, let’s talk about how to get you back to feeling like yourself again. The good news is that there’s a whole toolbox of treatments available, ranging from super simple stuff you can do at home to the more “heavy-duty” options involving doctors and maybe even surgery. Let’s break it down, shall we?

RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): Your First Line of Defense

Think of RICE as your wrist’s best friend in the immediate aftermath of an injury. It’s all about damage control right away!

• Rest: That means putting down the phone (yes, even from scrolling!), avoiding heavy lifting, and generally babying your wrist. Let it chill out!
• Ice: Grab an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas – hey, whatever works!), wrap it in a towel, and apply it to your wrist for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. It’s like a spa day for your wrist, reducing swelling and numbing the pain.
• Compression: An elastic bandage can work wonders to minimize swelling. Just make sure you don’t wrap it too tight, or you’ll cut off circulation. You want a gentle hug, not a tourniquet!
• Elevation: Prop your wrist up on a pillow. Keeping it above your heart helps drain excess fluid and reduces swelling.

Splinting/Casting: The Immobilization Station

Sometimes, your wrist needs more than just rest – it needs to be held captive! That’s where splints and casts come in. These handy devices keep your wrist from moving, allowing those injured ligaments or bones to heal properly. Think of it as a temporary “time out” for your wrist.

Pain Management: Keeping the Ouch at Bay

Let’s face it, wrist injuries can be painful. Luckily, there are ways to manage that discomfort while you heal.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): The Inflammation Fighters

Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can reduce both pain and inflammation. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the label and chat with your doctor if you have any concerns, especially about potential side effects like stomach upset or interactions with other medications.

Analgesics: Other Pain Relief Options

Sometimes, you need something a bit stronger than NSAIDs. Your doctor might recommend other pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol). Again, always follow your doctor’s instructions and be aware of potential side effects.

Physical Therapy: Building Back Stronger

Once the initial pain and swelling have subsided, it’s time to get your wrist moving again! That’s where physical therapy comes in. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to:

• Restore Range of Motion: Get your wrist bending and twisting like it used to.
• Build Strength: Make those wrist muscles strong enough to handle daily tasks.
• Improve Function: Get you back to doing all the things you love, pain-free!

Surgery: When All Else Fails

In some severe cases, conservative treatments just aren’t enough. That’s when surgery might be necessary. Common surgical procedures for wrist injuries include:

• Fracture Fixation: Stabilizing broken bones with plates, screws, or wires.
• Ligament Repair: Stitching torn ligaments back together.
• TFCC Repair: Addressing tears in the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC).

Surgery is a big decision, so be sure to discuss the risks and benefits thoroughly with your doctor.

Potential Complications: What to Watch Out For

Okay, so you’ve hurt your wrist – bummer! You’re doing the RICE thing, maybe rocking a splint, and probably popping a few ibuprofen like they’re candy (but don’t actually do that, okay?). But here’s the deal: sometimes, even with the best care, things can get a little… complicated. Let’s talk about some potential pitfalls to watch out for so you can be your own best advocate!

Chronic Pain: The Unwelcome Guest

Imagine a guest that refuses to leave. That’s chronic pain. Sometimes, even after your wrist is “healed,” pain can linger. This could be due to nerve damage, inflammation, or just your body being a bit of a drama queen. So, What do we need to do to manage this persistent annoyance?

• Pain Management Strategies: Think physical therapy (again!), maybe some nerve-numbing meds (ask your doc, of course!), or even alternative therapies like acupuncture (if you’re feeling adventurous!). The key is to be proactive and find what works for you.

Stiffness: The Tin Man Effect

Ever feel like your wrist is turning into the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz? That’s stiffness creeping in. It’s super common after immobilization, but it can also be a sign of something else going on.

• Rehabilitation Techniques: Get ready to bust out those stretches and range-of-motion exercises! A physical therapist can be your best friend here, guiding you through the moves and making sure you’re not pushing too hard (or too little!).

Arthritis: The Long-Term Joint Jitters

Okay, this one’s a bit of a downer, but it’s important to be aware of. Wrist injuries can sometimes lead to arthritis down the road – basically, your joints start to wear and tear.

• Different Types of Arthritis: We’re talking osteoarthritis (the “wear and tear” kind) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition). Both can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. What are the management?
  • Management may involve medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

Non-union: The Fracture That Refuses to Mend

Picture this: your fracture is like a stubborn kid who refuses to eat their vegetables. It just won’t heal. This is called non-union, and it’s not a good time.

• Treatment Options: We’re talking bone grafts (basically, borrowing bone from somewhere else to kickstart the healing process) or surgery to stabilize the fracture.

Malunion: The Healed-But-Crooked Situation

So, your fracture did heal, but it’s a little… wonky. This is malunion, and it can cause pain, limited motion, and even arthritis.

• Corrective Measures: Depending on how severe it is, you might need surgery to re-break and reset the bone. Ouch, I know!

Nerve Damage: The Tingling Troublemaker

Nerves are like the electrical wiring of your body – and when they get damaged, things can go haywire.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a biggie! It happens when the median nerve in your wrist gets compressed, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in your hand and fingers. Treatment ranges from splints to surgery.

Instability (Chronic): The “Giving Way” Blues

Ever feel like your wrist is about to give out on you? That’s instability, and it can be super frustrating.

• Persistent Wrist Instability: This could be due to ligament damage or other underlying issues. Treatment often involves physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles, but sometimes surgery is needed to repair the ligaments.

Prevention: Your Wrists’ Superhero Training Manual! 💪

Alright, wrist warriors, listen up! We’ve talked about the what, why, and ouch of wrist injuries. Now, let’s get serious about the how of keeping those precious joints safe and sound. Think of this as your wrist’s personal superhero training manual – because let’s face it, your wrists deserve to feel invincible!

Lift Like a Pro (Even if You’re Just Lifting Groceries) 🏋️‍♀️

Ever notice how some people make lifting heavy things look effortless? That’s not magic; it’s technique! When you’re hoisting anything – from that stack of books to your super-sized grocery haul – remember these golden rules:

• Bend those knees! Your legs are way stronger than your back (and wrists!).
• Keep your back straight.
• Hold the object close to your body. This reduces the strain on your wrists.
• Don’t twist while lifting. Pivot your feet instead.

Workplace Wellness: Ergonomics to the Rescue! 🧑‍💻

Your desk job doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your wrists. A few simple ergonomic tweaks can make a world of difference:

• Keyboard and Mouse Placement: Position them so your wrists are straight and relaxed, not bent at awkward angles. Consider a wrist rest!
• Chair Height: Adjust your chair so your elbows are at a 90-degree angle while typing.
• Take Breaks! Get up, stretch, and give your wrists a little wiggle room every 20-30 minutes. Your wrists (and your brain) will thank you!

Suit Up! Wrist Guards for the Win! 🏂

If your idea of a good time involves wheels, ramps, or anything else that could send you tumbling, wrist guards are your new best friend. Whether you’re skateboarding, snowboarding, rollerblading, or even just trying out that new unicycle you bought on a whim (we’ve all been there!), wrist guards can absorb impact and prevent fractures and sprains. Don’t be a hero; protect those wrists!

Flex Those Muscles: Strength and Flexibility Training 💪🧘‍♀️

Strong, flexible wrists are happy wrists. Simple exercises can do wonders:

• Wrist Curls: Hold a light weight (or even just a can of soup!) and curl your wrist up and down.
• Reverse Wrist Curls: Same as above, but with your palms facing down.
• Wrist Rotations: Gently rotate your wrists in circles, both clockwise and counterclockwise.
• Stretches: Gently bend your wrist forward, backward, and side to side, holding each stretch for a few seconds.

Do these exercises regularly to keep your wrists strong and supple.

Older & Wiser: Preventing Falls 👴👵

For our more seasoned friends (we mean that in the best way!), fall prevention is key to wrist health. Here are a few tips:

• Home Safety: Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter.
• Good Lighting: Make sure your home is well-lit, especially at night.
• Grab Bars: Install grab bars in bathrooms and other areas where falls are more likely.
• Regular Exercise: Stay active to maintain your balance and coordination.
• Vision Checks: Ensure your glasses prescription is up to date.

By taking these precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling and injuring your wrists.

So, listen to your body, folks! If that wrist is screaming at you after a fall, don’t just shrug it off. Get it checked out. Knowing the difference between a sprain and a fracture can save you a whole lot of unnecessary pain and get you back to your life faster. Take care and be safe out there!