Sports wrist injuries
Sprains, scaphoid fractures and other common sports injuries. Focused on return to activity.
Wrist injuries in athletes are extremely common, particularly in contact sports, racquet sports, gymnastics and water sports. An accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan geared towards returning to sporting activity are essential to prevent long-term complications.
Most common injuries
- Scaphoid fracture: the most frequent carpal fracture, which may be missed on initial radiographs
- Carpal ligament sprains: especially scapholunate ligament injuries
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury: causing pain on the ulnar side of the wrist
- Tendinitis: due to overuse in racquet or throwing sports
Diagnosis
A specialist clinical examination is the first step. Standard radiographs may not reveal all injuries. MRI is essential for detecting occult fractures, ligament tears and fibrocartilage lesions. In selected cases, diagnostic and therapeutic arthroscopy enables the surgeon to confirm and treat the injury in a single procedure.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. Stable scaphoid fractures are managed with immobilisation, whereas displaced fractures require surgery (compression screw fixation). Ligament injuries may need arthroscopic repair. TFCC lesions are treated with arthroscopic debridement or repair depending on the tear pattern.
Return to sport
The primary goal is a complete recovery that allows a safe return to competition without risk of recurrence. Timescales vary according to the injury: from six weeks for minor sprains to four to six months for surgically treated scaphoid fractures. Sport-specific rehabilitation protocols and objective return-to-sport criteria are employed throughout the process.
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Frequently asked questions
- How do I know if I have a scaphoid fracture?
- A scaphoid fracture may not be visible on an initial radiograph. If you have pain in the anatomical snuffbox (the area between the thumb tendons) after falling onto an outstretched hand, it is important to seek medical advice. An MRI or CT scan can confirm the diagnosis.
- How long does a wrist sprain take to heal?
- A mild wrist sprain can heal within two to four weeks with rest and immobilisation. Severe sprains involving ligament tears may require two to three months and, in some cases, surgical repair to prevent chronic instability.
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