Wrist strains are common in sports that require frequent snapping of the wrists, like baseball, hockey, golf and tennis. A strain can be caused by a sudden sharp fall or by prolonged overuse of an already weakened joint. Therapies include rest, casts or splints, anti-inflammatory drugs, and in the most severe cases, arthroscopic surgery.
Exercise helps with recovery. You can perform simple Weighted Wrist Curls with a weight that feels manageable. Or, for a more challenging exercise, check out Jerry Shreck's video. He incorporates foam rolls and PVC and metal pipe to roll up a rope.
You can also use weight plates to increase the resistance. There are gimmick pieces out there, such as the Sidewinder, but a simple, cheap wooden roller with weight can produce the same results.
Most athletes can get back to their sport after a short-term rest. But err on the side of caution—surgery can easily put you out from four to eight weeks. Informing your athletic trainer is always a smart idea, even if it means leaving the game. Missing one game is not nearly as bad as missing two months.
If you have a brace, wearing it for a time after the injury has healed gives you additional support in a once weakened area.
Read more:
- 4 Common Causes of Wrist Pain, and How to Fix Them
- Tips to Speed Up Healing of an Injured Wrist
- How to Prevent Softball Wrist Injuries
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