Wrist Fracture
A wrist fracture is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the wrist. It’s one of the most common injuries, often caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand, a sports injury, or car/motorbike accident. It can be a sign of osteoporosis in the elderly and investigations may be warranted.
Anatomy
The wrist is made up of two forearm bones — the radius and ulna — and eight small carpal bones. The most common wrist fracture is a distal radius fracture, where the larger forearm bone breaks near the wrist joint.
Wrist Fracture
Symptoms
Common signs of a wrist fracture include:
- Pain and swelling around the wrist
- Difficulty moving or using the hand
- Tenderness to touch
- Bruising or deformity (the wrist may look bent or crooked).
Diagnosis
Your doctor will examine your wrist and usually order X-rays to see the break. Sometimes a CT scan or MRI is needed to assess more complex injuries or damage to nearby joints or ligaments.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture:
- Simple fractures (where the bones remain in a good position) may be treated with a splint or cast for several weeks.
- Displaced or unstable fractures (where the bones have moved) may need a reduction (realignment) or surgery to restore the normal shape and function of the wrist.
- Surgery may involve plates, screws, or pins to hold the bones in place while they heal.
Recovery
Most wrist fractures take about 6–8 weeks to heal, though full recovery of movement and strength can take longer. Physiotherapy is often recommended to help restore function and prevent stiffness
Possible Complications
While most people make a full recovery, possible complications include:
- Stiffness or loss of motion
- Ongoing pain or weakness
- Arthritis in the joint (especially if the fracture involved the joint surface)
- Nerve irritation or tendon problems (in more severe injuries)
- Vitamin C is encouraged to minimise nerve irritation and encourage healing
When to Seek Help
Seek medical attention urgently if you notice:
- Severe pain, deformity, or swelling
- Numbness in the hand or fingers
- Inability to move the wrist or fingers.
