Distal Radius Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Distal Radius Fracture?
An orthopedic surgeon, a bone and joint doctor, usually treats a distal radius fracture, which is also called a broken wrist. A very painful injury needs a visit to an urgent care center or emergency room. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is a distal radius fracture?
A distal radius fracture is a break of the radius bone close to the wrist. It is also called a broken wrist. The radius is one of the two long bones in the forearm. It is on the thumb side. The other bone, the ulna, is on the small finger side.
These fractures are very common. In the U.S., about 1 out of every 6 broken bones treated in the emergency room is a distal radius fracture.
There are many ways the bone can break. Some common types are:
- A Colles fracture is one of the most common types. The broken piece tilts backwards toward the back of the wrist.
- An intra-articular fracture extends into the wrist joint. An extra-articular fracture does not.
- An open fracture is when the bone breaks through the skin. It needs prompt medical attention because it can lead to infection.
Symptoms
A distal radius fracture usually causes pain right away. Other signs include:
- Swelling and bruising.
- Pain when you touch the wrist.
- A wrist that looks bent or out of place.
- Numb fingers, if the nerves in the hand are injured or squeezed. This can happen in very severe fractures.
Causes and who gets it
The most common cause is a fall onto an outstretched arm. In young people, these fractures typically happen in high-energy accidents, such as a fall from a ladder or a car crash.
In older people, a simple fall onto the wrist can cause a break, especially with osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak and more likely to break.
How doctors diagnose it
Your doctor will examine your injury, including pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising. Your doctor will likely order X-rays. X-rays show if the bone is broken and if the pieces have moved out of place. Sometimes a CT scan, which makes detailed pictures of the bone, helps plan surgery.
While you get care, wear a splint and keep the wrist raised above your heart.
Treatment
The choice depends on the type of fracture, your age and activity level, and your surgeon's judgment.
If the broken bone is in a good position, your doctor may put you in a cast until it heals. If the bone has moved out of place, your doctor may need to put it back in the right position. This is called a reduction. Your wrist is then placed in a splint. If you do not need surgery, the cast usually comes off about 4 to 6 weeks after the fracture. Then you will likely start physical therapy to improve strength in your wrist.
Sometimes the bone cannot be put back or kept in place with a cast. Then you may need surgery. Your doctor may use metal plates, screws, pins, or a metal support outside the body to hold the bone steady. A guideline summary says people over age 65 may not benefit from surgery, and a cast may be better for them.
When to see a doctor
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if a broken bone sticks out through the skin or if you have bleeding that will not stop. Go to an emergency room right away if your fingers feel numb or look pale after a wrist injury. Go to an emergency room right away if you have:
- Severe pain that does not get better or gets worse.
- Severe pain when someone gently straightens your fingers.
- New weakness or trouble bending your thumb or index finger.
Go straight to an urgent care center or the emergency room if the injury is very painful or the wrist looks badly bent.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can examine the injury, order X-rays, and refer you to an orthopedic surgeon. They can also help with follow-up, pain plans, and a check of your bone health after the break.
Common questions
Is a distal radius fracture the same as a broken wrist?
Yes. A distal radius fracture is a break of the radius bone close to the wrist, so it is also called a broken wrist.
Do all distal radius fractures need surgery?
No. If the broken bone is in a good position, your doctor may put you in a cast until the bone heals. Surgery may be needed when the bone cannot stay in place with just a cast.
How long does a distal radius fracture take to heal?
Most take about 3 months to heal enough for you to use your wrist for all activities. Full recovery can take up to 1 year.
Will my wrist feel stiff after a distal radius fracture?
Yes, almost all patients have some stiffness in the wrist. It usually gets better in the month or two after the cast is taken off or after surgery.
Why might my doctor test my bones after a broken wrist?
Because a break caused by weak bones is often the first sign that a person has weak bones. Your doctor may recommend bone testing.
Sources
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - Distal Radius Fractures (Broken Wrist)
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - The Management of Distal Radius Fractures (Plain Language Summary)
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
