Wrist injuries are among the most common sports-related issues, often caused by falls, repetitive strain, or sudden impact during physical activity. While some mild sprains or strains heal with rest, lingering pain after a sports injury should never be ignored. Understanding the warning signs, possible causes, and treatment options can help you decide when to seek urgent care.
At AFC Urgent Care Franklin, our urgent care clinic is equipped to provide care for most non-life-threatening injuries, including sprains, strains, and broken bones. We accept walk-in patients, and are open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm. Simply walk into the clinic for same-day care, or save your spot online in advance using the button below.
Signs You Should Seek Medical Care for an Injury
Wrist injuries are very common and can happen in a split second by tripping, carrying a heavy object, or even sleeping wrong on your arm. While some wrist injuries will heal on their own with time, you should always seek medical care for persistent or severe pain for a proper diagnosis. You should not ignore symptoms such as:
- Persistent or worsening pain that lasts more than a few days.
- Noticeable swelling or bruising.
- Difficulty moving or rotating the wrist.
- A popping or grinding sensation when moving your wrist.
- Numbness or tingling in your fingers or hand.
- Visible deformity in the wrist joint.
Common Kinds of Wrist Injuries
Sports injuries involving the wrist usually occur from direct trauma, repetitive strain, or overuse. The most common causes include:
- Sprains and Strains: Caused by overstretching ligaments or muscles, often from falling on an outstretched hand.
- Fractures: A break in one of the small wrist bones, common in contact sports or falls.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons due to repetitive motions, such as throwing, lifting, or racket sports.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve, sometimes triggered or worsened by repetitive wrist movements in sports.
- TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) Injuries: Damage to the cartilage that supports the wrist joint, often from twisting motions.
Treatment for Wrist Injuries
Treatment depends on the severity and type of injury. Mild injuries may be managed at home using the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and over-the-counter pain relievers. Wrist braces or supports can also help stabilize the joint and reduce strain during healing.
For more serious injuries, medical treatment may include:
- Prescription medications for pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy to restore mobility and strength.
- Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs confirm fractures or soft tissue damage.
- In severe cases, surgical intervention is required to repair torn ligaments, cartilage, or broken bones.
Walk Into AFC Franklin for Same-Day Wrist Pain Diagnosis and Treatment
Wrist pain can make it difficult to function in day-to-day life. In severe cases, wrist injuries may require surgery. If you’re experiencing wrist pain, seeking timely medical care is essential to catching the injury early and beginning treatment before further damage occurs.
At AFC Urgent Care Franklin, our walk-in clinic is available 7 days a week to provide rapid injury care for common conditions like wrist injuries. Our clinic accepts walk-in patients, and we work with most medical insurance plans. Walk into the clinic today for rapid same-day care, or give our team a call to learn more at (508) 446-9400.
