— Conditions We Treat

Wrist Injuries

Expert, evidence-based treatment to restore strength, mobility and confidence in your wrist.

— About This Condition

What is a Wrist Injury?

The wrist is a complex joint made up of multiple small bones, ligaments and tendons that work together to allow a wide range of movement while supporting load through the hand and arm. Because of this complexity, wrist injuries can range from mild sprains and strains to more significant ligament, tendon or bone injuries.

Wrist injuries commonly occur through falls onto an outstretched hand, sudden twisting movements, repetitive strain, or direct impact during sport or work. The severity and structures involved can vary significantly, which makes accurate assessment essential to guide the right treatment approach.

With the right diagnosis and a structured rehabilitation program, most wrist injuries recover well — restoring strength, movement and confidence in everyday tasks, work and sport.

— Recognise the Signs

Common Symptoms of Wrist Injuries

Wrist injuries often present differently depending on the structures involved — here are the most common signs to look out for.

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Pain with Movement

Pain when bending, twisting or weight-bearing through the wrist, such as pushing up from a chair.

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Swelling and Bruising

Visible swelling or bruising around the wrist, particularly following a fall or direct injury.

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Reduced Grip Strength

Weakness or difficulty gripping objects, opening jars, or carrying items.

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Wrist Stiffness

Reduced range of motion, making it difficult to fully bend, extend or rotate the wrist.

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Clicking or Catching

A clicking, catching or grinding sensation with wrist movement.

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Tenderness to Touch

Localised tenderness over a specific area of the wrist, which can help identify the structures involved.

— What Causes It?

Common Causes of Wrist Injuries

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Falls onto an Outstretched Hand

A common mechanism for wrist sprains, ligament injuries and fractures.

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Sporting Injuries

Contact sports, racquet sports and gymnastics carry a higher risk of wrist strain or impact injuries.

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Repetitive Strain

Repeated wrist movements from work, sport or manual tasks placing cumulative strain on the joint.

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Direct Impact

A knock or blow to the wrist during sport, work or an accident.

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Sudden Twisting Movements

Rapid or forceful twisting of the wrist, often occurring during a fall or awkward movement.

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Previous Wrist Injury

A history of wrist injury increasing the likelihood of ongoing instability or reinjury.

— Our Treatment Approach

How We Treat Wrist Injuries at KVP

Our approach begins with a thorough assessment to identify the structures involved, assess joint stability and function, and determine whether further imaging or specialist referral is required. From there, we build a tailored treatment plan that may include:

Specialist

Pain and Swelling Management

Hands-on treatment and guidance to settle acute symptoms

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Restoring Movement

Targeted mobility work to regain full, pain-free wrist range of motion.

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Progressive Strengthening

Rebuilding grip and wrist strength to support everyday tasks, work and sport.

Postural

Functional and Sport-specific Retraining

Preparing the wrist for the specific demands of your work or activity.

Therapy

Manual Therapy

Hands-on treatment to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness.

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Referral where appropriate

Liaising with your GP or specialist for imaging or further investigation if needed.

Most wrist injuries respond well to structured rehabilitation, with treatment progressed based on your recovery and functional milestones.

— FAQ

Wrist Injury Questions Answered

Everything you need to know before your first appointment.

Can’t find your answer? Get in touch.

Not always. Imaging may be recommended in specific cases, such as suspected fractures, but many wrist injuries can be assessed and managed clinically.

Recovery time varies depending on the structures involved and severity of the injury, ranging from a few weeks for mild sprains to longer for more significant injuries.

In most cases, some movement and gradual loading is encouraged rather than complete immobilisation, guided by your specific injury and recovery stage.

This depends on the injury. Bracing or splinting may be recommended in some cases to support healing, particularly in the early stages.

With appropriate rehabilitation, most people regain full strength and function. Recovery is monitored and progressed to support the best possible outcome.

If you're experiencing ongoing wrist pain, weakness or reduced movement following an injury, early assessment helps guide the right treatment and supports a faster, more complete recovery.

— GET IN TOUCH

Treat Your Wrist Injury

Our physios will identify the root cause at your first consultation. Same day appointments available.

Or call: 0409 371 217