Hand Sprain

Violent overstretching of one or more ligaments in the hand. Sprains involving two or more ligaments cause considerably more disability than single-ligament sprains. When the ligament is overstretched, it becomes tense and gives way at its weakest point, either where it attaches to bone or within the ligament itself. If the ligament pulls loose a fragment of bone, it is called a sprain-fracture. There are 3 types of sprains:

• Mild (Grade I) - Tearing of some ligament fibers. There is no loss of function.
• Moderate (Grade II) - Rupture of a portion of the ligament, resulting in some loss of function.
• Severe (Grade III) - Complete rupture of the ligament or complete separation of ligament from bone. There is total loss of function. A severe sprain requires surgical repair.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED

• Ligaments connecting joints in the hand.
• Tissue surrounding the sprain, including blood vessels, tendons, bone, periosteum (covering of bone) and muscles.

Causes

Stress on a ligament that temporarily forces or pries joints in the hand out of their normal location. Hand sprain occur frequently in contact sports or sports in which falling on an outstretched hand is likely.

Signs & Symptoms

• Severe pain at the time of injury.
• A feeling of popping or tearing inside the hand.
• Tenderness at the injury site.
• Swelling in the hand.
• Bruising that appears soon after injury .

Treatment

Follow your doctor's instructions. Instructions are supplemental.

If the doctor does not apply a cast, tape or elastic bandage:

• Continue using an ice pack 3 or 4 times a day. Place ice chips or cubes in a plastic bag. Wrap the bag in moist towel, and place it over the injured area.Use for 20 minutes at a time.
• Wrap the hand with an elasticized bandage between ice treatments.
• After 72 hours ,apply heat instead of ice, if it feels better. Use heat lamps, hot soaks, hot showers, heating pads,or heat liniments or ointments.
• Take whirlpool treatments, if available.
• Massage gently and often to provide comfort and decrease swelling.

MEDICATION

• For minor discomfort, you may use: Aspirin, acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. Topical liniments and ointments.
• Your doctor may prescribe: Stronger pain relievers. Injection of a long-acting local anesthetic to reduce pain.

Injection of a corticosteroid, such as triamcinolone, to reduce inflammation.

Home Diet

During recovery, eat a well-balanced diet that includes extra protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese, milk and eggs.

Prevention Tips

• Build your strength with a conditioning program appropriate for your sport.
• Warm up before practice or competition.
• Tape vulnerable joints before practice of competition.