Injuries
Wrist and Hand Injuries After a Car Accident
Understanding wrist and hand injury
Wrist and hand injuries often occur when a person braces against the steering wheel or dashboard at the moment of impact. The force can cause sprains, fractures, ligament damage or injury to the small bones and joints of the hand. Because the hands are central to daily activities and work, even modest injuries can have a significant impact on function. Early assessment helps identify fractures that are easy to miss and supports a clear record for a CTP claim.
Common symptoms
Symptoms can take hours or days to appear after a crash. If you notice any of these, it's worth being assessed.
Pain in the wrist, palm or fingers
Swelling or bruising across the hand or wrist
Reduced grip strength
Difficulty bending or straightening the fingers
Stiffness or restricted wrist movement
Numbness, tingling or pins and needles in the fingers
Pain when gripping, twisting or lifting
Tenderness over a specific bone or joint
Quick check
Not sure if it's serious?
How we help
We assess your wrist or hand injury by telehealth and document its nature and impact in a way that supports your CTP claim. Where appropriate, we provide the medical certification the scheme requires and arrange imaging or specialist referral if a fracture or ligament injury is suspected. We help coordinate physiotherapy to restore movement and grip, and guide you through the relevant paperwork. Our focus is the medical side; questions about liability are best directed to a solicitor.
Treatment approach
CTP medical assessment and Certificate of Fitness
Arrange imaging or specialist referral where a fracture or ligament injury is suspected
Document symptoms, function and impact for the CTP claim
Coordinate physiotherapy for range of motion, grip and dexterity
Support graded return to work and daily tasks
Review progress and adjust the plan as recovery allows
When to see a doctor
Seek assessment if you have significant pain, swelling, deformity or you cannot move the wrist or fingers normally. Numbness or persistent tingling in the fingers should also be reviewed. A wrist fracture can be subtle, so prompt assessment helps avoid a missed injury.
Not an emergency? Book an assessment. If symptoms are severe or worsening, call 000.
Frequently asked questions
Next step
See a CTP doctor about it
Often seen within the week. Telehealth across NSW, or in person where appropriate. No claim number needed to start.