Wrist pain

If you have had a nasty traumatic injury and have severe pain you may require an X-ray. Symptoms that suggest a fracture is possible are if you are unable to use the wrist normally, or if the wrist appears to be at a different angle to normal, and if there's significant bruising and swelling around the area. There are many simple causes of wrist pain that don’t require anything other than some self-treatment at home. Repetitive strain injury or simple strains and sprains can be common causes of wrist pain.

Resting the wrist and taking some simple pain relief such as acetaminophen is a good place to start. If there has been an injury, an ice pack or bag of peas wrapped in a tea towel may provide some added relief.

Your pharmacist is an expert and can recommend further treatments such as different painkillers, topical treatments, or support for the injured wrist.

Most causes of wrist pain will improve with some self-treatment. If you still have pain that is not improving after two weeks, then you should book a routine appointment with your doctor to discuss it.

You should seek more urgent medical attention if you have severe pain. If you are concerned you have suffered a fracture or have a high-impact injury to your wrist, such as a fall, you will likely require an X-ray.

If you have severe symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or fevers you should seek urgent medical advice from your doctor or 911.

The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, your medical history, any relevant family medical history, and what medications you are currently taking. They will examine your wrist, check your temperature, and potentially do other tests such as blood tests or X-rays.

If you go to a hospital, a doctor or nurse will examine you, and if there is a concern for a fracture you will have an X-ray and various other tests. If a fracture is confirmed you will be advised of the best next step.