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3 Sports that Can Strengthen Your Wrists and Help Prevent Injury

Wrist pain is common. Everyone from athletes to office workers to construction workers can suffer from wrist pain. However, you don’t have to accept the discomfort. There are treatment options that can improve or resolve your pain. The experienced, board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic offer a variety of services that can treat your wrist issues.

What causes wrist pain?

Injuries and certain conditions can strain your wrists, leading to discomfort and a limited range of motion.

Injuries

High-impact falls and repetitive stress, such as hitting a tennis ball or playing an instrument, can bring about tissue inflammation, stress fractures, and sprains.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause wrist pain. Osteoarthritis of the wrist is not that common, but it can happen when the cartilage that pads your joints begins to degenerate. With rheumatoid arthritis, your immune system attacks your own tissues, including the tissues in your wrists.  

Carpal tunnel syndrome  

Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve becomes depressed at the location of the wrist.

Am I at risk for wrist pain?

Factors that may increase your risk for wrist pain can include playing high-impact sports, such as football, golf, or tennis, as well as performing repetitive work, such as knitting or cutting hair. You may also have a higher risk for wrist pain if you develop rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions.

How can I strengthen my wrists and avoid injury?

Even if you’re at risk for developing wrist pain, you can use these exercises to strengthen your wrists and help avoid injury.

The ball dribble

The ball dribble exercise involves dribbling a basketball against the floor for 30 seconds and then against the wall for 30 seconds and then continuing the pattern for a few rounds. Basketball players also employ a form of this exercise to increase dexterity in their wrists.

Tennis ball squeeze

The tennis ball squeeze involves firmly squeezing a tennis ball for 5-10 seconds. This exercise is also useful for those who play any type of racket sport.

Wrist extensions

The wrist extension exercise, used by golfers to reduce the risk of injury, is comprised of extending one arm straight and pulling that arm’s fingers back using your other hand. Hold your fingers until you experience a stretch in your forearm.

If your wrist discomfort is chronic or you think you might need medical attention for your pain, the orthopedic surgeons at Bahri Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Clinic can help. Call to book an appointment today.

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