Wrist & Hand Injuries

Physiotherapy Department CUH, Cork Emergency Departments

Print Version

• With hand and wrist injuries, there can be a lot of swelling and pain.
• In order to settle the pain and swelling it is important in the early stages to rest and support your hand/wrist.
• Keep your hand elevated – at least above elbow height.

To help reduce swelling use one of the following ice treatments 4 times a day for at least the first 3 days

• Wrap an ice cube in a damp cloth and rub over the injured area for approximately 5 minutes.
• Fill one basin with cold water (ice cubes can be added) and one basin with warm water.
• Place the hand into the basin of cold water for 1 minute and then into the warm water for 1 minute. Repeat this 3-5 times.

As the pain settles (it should ease within 24 to 48 hours), start some gentle active exercises to prevent your hand/wrist from getting stiff:

• Make a full fist with all your fingers and then open the fingers out as wide as you can.
• Bring your thumb across to touch your little finger and then stretch it back out again.
• Bend your wrist down and then bring it back up as far as you can.
• Keep your elbow tucked in by your side and turn the palm of your hand up to face the ceiling and then turn it down to the floor.
• Avoid heavy lifting with your hand/wrist until the pain and swelling settles.

Print Version

---

---

Content by Karen Buckley - Senior Physiotherapist, Cork University Hospital, Dr Íomhar O' Sullivan 11/02/2006. Reviewed by Dr ÍOS 07/04/2007. Next review 07/04/2008