A sprain is the stretch or partial tear of ligaments (which connect two bones). A wrist sprain happens when the ligaments that support the wrist bend or twist too far.
The wrist joint is made of bones, ligaments (strong bands that hold the bones together), and tendons (bands that attach muscle to bone). People may sprain a wrist when they trip and hold their hand out to stop the fall. Those who play sports that involve a lot of repeated wrist motions can also get sprains, especially if they take on these activities too quickly.
A wrist sprain is a common injury. While it can be quite painful, it usually heals within a few weeks.
All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.
