Wrist Ligament Tear and Instability
What is a Wrist Ligament Tear and Instability?
A ligament is a tough, flexible band of fibrous tissue. The wrist contains many ligaments that hold the wrist bones in proper alignment and provide stability to the joint.
When a ligament is torn, the wrist bones may shift out of position, leading to instability because the injured ligament can no longer adequately support the joint.
Types of Wrist Ligament Tears
Wrist ligament tears may be classified as:
- Grade 1: Wrist ligaments are stretched and have microscopic tears
- Grade 2: Wrist ligaments are partially torn
- Grade 3: Wrist ligaments are completely torn off from their bone attachments.
Causes of Wrist Ligament Tears and Instability
Wrist ligament tears occur when they get stretched beyond their normal limits. Overstretching of the wrist ligaments may occur due to:
- Falling onto an outstretched hand
- Sudden twist or bend of the wrist
- Extreme pressure on the wrist
What Are the Symptoms of Wrist Ligament Tears?
Some of the most common symptoms of a ligament tear include:
- Swollen and painful wrist
- Limited movement of the wrist and/or hand
- A feeling of a popping or tearing sensation in the wrist
- Warmth and tenderness around the injury
- Bruising of the wrist
- Instability of the wrist
What Happens If a Wrist Ligament Tear Is Left Untreated?
Proper treatment of a wrist ligament tear is necessary because if left untreated, the condition may result in long-term problems such as chronic wrist pain, stiffness, and the development of arthritis in the wrist.
How Is a Wrist Ligament Tear Diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask you how the injury occurred, discuss your medical history, and perform a thorough physical exam of your wrist. Additional tests such as X-ray, MRI, or Arthrogram may also be ordered to confirm the ligament tear.
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