Diagnostics | Wrist sprained

Diagnostics

The diagnosis can often be made by the affected person himself or by a doctor. Signs of a sprain are a swollen joint, a haematoma due to bruising, pain and yet the joint can still be slightly strained. The doctor will ask about the exact course of the accident in the medical history and can draw initial conclusions based on the type of injury.

However, if there is any doubt that it is really only a sprain, the doctor can take further action. These include, for example, conventional x-rays or computer tomography. These examinations can be used to detect torn ligaments or even bone splinters.

Therapy

The therapy depends on the severity of the injury. It also depends on the extent to which it is necessary for the patient. Active and young people often aim to be able to put weight on their wrist again as quickly as possible. A load-supporting therapy also makes sense if, for example, the right hand of a right-handed person is affected, which is also used during work. First aid after a sprain is given according to the PECH rule described above.

Tap the wrist

Tapering offers a way to treat a sprain. Taping bandages restrict unwanted movement and at the same time support the joint capsule and the associated ligaments under load. They stabilize the joint and can also be used to prevent sprains and torn ligaments.

In order to tap the wrist correctly, the arm should first be placed on a support, relaxed and stretched out. The wrist must be connected in the correct natural position to prevent malpositioning or contractures. The first two tapes are placed just before the wrist and the front end of the metacarpal.

They serve as anchors and should have a good tight fit, but should not tie off the underlying tissue. Horizontal reins are now glued to the outside of the wrist to connect the anchors. Furthermore, one rein each is attached to the back of the hand and one under the little finger.

A thumb bridle is also glued on, which includes the thumb saddle joint. Afterwards, diagonally running strips are attached. They run once from the little finger starting at the little finger to the thumb rein and vice versa, so that they form a cross on the back of the hand.

The same system is used to apply tape strips to the inside of the hand as on the outside of the hand. Finally, beginning on the inside of the hand, tape strips are applied horizontally from anchor to anchor. This is the actual taping and is also repeated on the outside of the hand.

After the tape bandage has been applied, protruding tape ends can be cut off. Overall, care should be taken to ensure that the tapes sit firmly but do not impair the blood circulation in the hand and individual fingers. This should provide a stabilizing and supporting function.