Soft tissue injury of Hand and Wrist: Very low risk fracture

This patient information leaflet is aimed at providing you with more information about your injury, how to improve your result and advice on who to call should you have any concerns. Your nurse or doctor does not think there is a break or more serious injury but its important you read the information below and get in touch if you have any problems.

What is a soft tissue injury?

A soft tissue injury is an injury to the ligaments, tendons or muscles caused by overstretching.

It is painful and the area may be bruised and swollen. Soft tissue injuries are the most painful in the first few days and then will start to improve. Ways in which you can help are:

1. Take painkillers. Be aware of the dose, any interactions with your own medications and allergies you may have. If you have questions ask your doctor or pharmacist.
2. Rest. While it is important to keep using the affected hand and wrist as pain allows, rest will improve your symptoms in the early stages.
3. Ice. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a damp towel for 10 minutes. Do this every 2-3 hours for the first few days. Be careful not to apply ice directly- to skin as it can cause serious burns.
4. Elevate. This can help with the swelling and the pain.
5. Rehabilitation. When you are ready to start to exercise your wrist. 

These exercises will help you to regain movement in your hand/wrist. As the exercises may at the start increase your discomfort, you may wish to take some pain relief. Start the exercises gently two to five days after the injury and gradually increase the movement over three weeks. We advise that you do 10 repetitions of each exercise, up to four times a day until you have regained the normal use of your hand.

Bend your hand back as far as you can:

and then forwards as far as you can.

Move your hand from side to side.

With your forearm on a table, turn your palm to face the ceiling

And then so it's facing the table

Spread your fingers wide, hold for 5-10 seconds

Make a fist and hold for 5-10 seconds

Touch each of your fingers to the thumb, from index to little and back again

Use your hand as soon as your pain allows for light activities. If you participate in an active hobby or job it is advised that you phase your return and avoid activities that make your wrist/hand sore. Gradually build up to your normal levels of use.

In addition to the advice in this leaflet, you may have been provided with a splint to give protection whilst healing takes place. These are removable and can be taken off to perform exercises.

If your pain persists beyond 2-3 weeks there may be an undiagnosed break in the bone. These can often not be seen in early X-rays.

If you continue to experience pain at 2-3 weeks contact a member of the orthopaedic team on extension 26009 through the Borders General Hospital switchboard on tel:01896 826000 or return to the Emergency Department for assessment.