Wrist pain can be the result of overuse which can lead to conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis or bursitis. Wrist pain also can be the result of a fall or sports injury. Fractures, sprains and strains are common wrist injuries. Treatment for a wrist injury often includes physical therapy exercises. These exercises are designed to help alleviate pain and increase the function of the wrist. Always consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
Stress Ball Squeeze
This exercise will help increase the strength in your wrist, hand and fingers. Use a stress ball -- a rubber ball, sponge or tennis ball are acceptable substitutes. You can find a stress ball in a sporting goods store or ask your doctor or physical therapist for one. Place the stress ball in the palm of your hand. Grasp your fingers, including your thumb, around the ball and squeeze tightly. Never squeeze to the point of pain. Once you have squeezed as tightly as possible, hold this position for five seconds. Relax and repeat one set of 10 repetitions.
Small Object Pick-Up
This exercise can help improve your ability to perform daily tasks. Gather a variety of small objects, such as pencils, pens, safety pins, coins, buttons or paper clips. Scatter the objects across a table. Slowly pick the objects up using your entire hand. You can then progress to just using your thumb and one of your fingers -- rotate fingers as you do this. Complete this exercise for a few minutes, three times each day.
Thumb Opposition
This exercise will help increase the flexibility of your wrist, hand and fingers following a wrist injury or condition. Place your elbow on a table with your hand in the air. Take your thumb and position it on your index finger. Press down using your thumb, and squeeze your fingers together as hard as you possibly can without causing pain. Hold this position for a count of five. Complete this exercise using each of your fingers. Repeat three times with each finger.
Extension and Flexion
This exercise will help improve the range of motion in your wrist. Use a resistance band and complete the exercise while seated. Secure one end of the resistance band under your foot. Wrap the other end of the band around your affected hand. To perform wrist flexion, turn your hand so that your palm is facing the ceiling. Slowly move your wrist up and down. Complete one set of 10 repetitions. For wrist extension, position your arm so that your palm is facing the ground. Move your arm up and down. Complete one set of 10 repetitions.
