Expert Insights from Dr. Kotzé, Specialist Hand and Peripheral Nerve Surgeon.
Hand and wrist injuries are common across a wide range of sports, including rugby, soccer, and cricket, as well as racquet sports like tennis and padel, and individual sports like golf.
These injuries can impact both professional and recreational athletes alike.
Dr. Kotzé shares valuable insight on common sports-related hand and wrist injuries, how they are treated, and when it is essential to seek specialist care.
What Are the Most Common Hand and Wrist Injuries in Athletes?
Athletes commonly sustain muscle strains, tendon or ligament injuries, and fractures involving the hand and wrist.
Certain injuries are more prevalent in specific sports:
Rugby players often suffer from finger fractures, thumb ligament tears, and wrist sprains due to high-impact contact and falls.
Tennis and padel players frequently experience wrist ligament strains and tennis elbow from repetitive racquet use. In cricket, finger dislocations, hand contusions, and wrist injuries from ball impact are common.
Soccer players, particularly goalkeepers, are prone to developing finger sprains, fractures, and wrist ligament injuries.
How Are Hand and Wrist Injuries Typically Treated?
Many sports-related hand and wrist injuries can initially be managed conservatively.
Treatment may include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, splinting or casting, and targeted rehabilitation or physiotherapy. In some instances, such as unstable fractures, complete tendon ruptures, or severe ligament injuries, surgical intervention is needed to restore optimal function.
Additionally, corticosteroid injections may be considered for some chronic or inflammatory conditions.
If an Athlete Is Experiencing Hand or Wrist Pain, When Should They Seek Care?
It is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if the injury appears minor.
Injuries like scaphoid fractures or finger dislocations might feel like a simple sprain at first. However, they may need urgent care to avoid long-term problems.
Athletes should see a hand and wrist specialist early if injured. This helps get an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. If you can’t see a specialist soon, visit your primary doctor or an urgent care centre in the meantime.
When Is Surgery Typically Necessary for Hand and Wrist Injuries?
Surgery is immediately required (within hours) for critical injuries. This includes open fractures, joint dislocations, and compartment syndrome.
Urgent surgery within days to weeks may be indicated for injuries such as displaced fractures, tendon ruptures, or severe ligament injuries in the wrist or fingers.
If non-operative treatment doesn’t help after several months, elective surgical repair may be needed to restore function.
What Exercises or Preventive Measures Can Athletes Take to Avoid Injuries?
Proper warm-up and stretching are essential, especially for older or high-performance athletes.
Strengthening the forearm, wrist, and hand muscles can provide better support and reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, wearing gear designed for specific sports can help reduce the risk of injury. For example, wear wrist guards for padel or tennis. Use finger tape or thumb supports for rugby and cricket. Also, wear goalkeeper gloves for soccer.
Why Is It Important to Consult a Specialist Hand and Wrist Surgeon?
The hand and wrist are among the most anatomically intricate and functionally critical regions in the body. Minor injuries might hide severe damage that needs expert care. This can include hidden fractures, tendon cuts, or ligament tears.
A specialist is best equipped to perform a detailed assessment and ensure optimal treatment, preventing long-term impairment and facilitating a safe return to sport.
Your Hands Deserve Specialist Attention
Hand and wrist injuries happen in almost every sport. Some conditions can be treated at home, but others require expert assistance for a complete recovery. Identifying the signs early and consulting a specialist can significantly impact long-term function and performance. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a weekend enthusiast, don’t ignore persistent pain or dysfunction. Timely, expert care is the key to getting back in the game safely and confidently.
