Strains
A strain is the stretching or tearing of a ligament, connective tissue that connects bone to bone. A strain in your hand occurs when you fall on your hands. It may be classified into three different grades depending on the severity of the injury such as:
- Grade 1: marked by mild pain and swelling
- Grade 2: characterized by persisting pain, swelling and reduced range of motion in adjacent joint such as the wrist
- Grade 3: marked by excruciating pain and sometimes accompanied with a popping sound
Diagnosis is made based on the physical symptoms. In addition, an ultrasound or X-ray may also be performed to confirm strain. Treatment involves pain relieving medications and injections, immobilization or activity modification and surgical intervention in severe cases.
