A sprain occurs when the ligaments of the wrist stretch or tear. This may be the result of an accident or from playing sports. It may be a repetitive injury from overuse of the wrist. No matter what causes the sprain, there are only so many ways it can heal. Playing any sport, including softball, takes skill and focus. You must be able to move freely. Whether you should play depends on a number of factors. The best person to ask is your doctor.
Pain Level
With a wrist sprain, you can expect some pain. Proper treatment is one way to ease the pain and get back on the field. Icing the area immediately will reduce the swelling and pain. Continue to apply ice for the first three days. Leave the ice pack in place for up to 20 minutes and repeat application four times a day. Talk to your doctor before applying ice if you have diabetes or a vascular disease. You should not attempt to use the wrist or play softball until you are pain-free for at least a week. If you try to go back to the game too soon, you may damage the ligaments again.
Swelling
If you see swelling on the wrist or anywhere around the area, this is an indicator that the injury is not yet healed. A swollen wrist needs immobilization. By applying a compression wrap, sling or brace, you keep the ligament static and promote healing. Swelling means you are not ready to play softball just yet.
Bruising
Bruising is a sign that the ligament bled after the injury. Bruising is also one way to gauge how long it has been since the sprain. A bruise that is dark and sore is still fresh. If you see fading color that is turning greenish, the injury is in the healing stage. Icing the sprain can slow bleeding and reduce the bruising. Bruising that is fresh should be a sign that the wrist is not ready for softball just yet.
See the Doctor
When you see the doctor, ask how long before you can play. Sprains happen in different degrees of severity. Your doctor may want to see you again and gauge the level of healing before allowing you to go back out on the field. A wrist that does not seem to be getting better may mean the injury is more severe than just a sprain. A doctor can take X-rays and examine the bone to ensure there is no fracture. See your doctor if the swelling does not reduce or if you feel numbness in your hand. If you play softball before the wrist heals, you risk a more severe injury. Wait for the doctor to give you the OK before joining the game.
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