Wrist Sprain Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and how you injured your wrist. The doctor will examine your wrist to check the stability of the joint and the severity of the injury.

Tests may include:

• X-ray -a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones
  • This is done to make sure no bones are broken. Sometimes fractures may not become visible on x-ray until several weeks have passed. X-rays can also show bones that move out of place because the ligaments that stabilize them have been torn.
• MRI scan -a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body
• CT scan -a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body
• Arthroscopy -a thin, lighted tube inserted through a small incision to look at structures inside the body
• Bone scan -a test that detects areas of increased or decreased bone turnover
  • This is sometimes needed to reveal hidden fractures.

Wrist sprains are graded according to their severity:

Grade 1

• Stretching and microtearing of ligament tissue

Grade 2

• Partial tearing of ligament tissue
• Mild instability of the joint
• May affect function of the hand and wrist

Grade 3

• Severe or complete tearing of ligament tissue
• Significant instability of the joint
• Can be associated with avulsion fractures