A distal radius fracture is a common type of arm fracture that occurs when the radius, one of the two long bones in the forearm, breaks near the wrist. The radius is the bone that attaches closest to the thumb. A distal radius fracture is also known as a wrist fracture or a broken wrist.
The most common cause of a distal radius fracture is a fall onto an outstretched hand. This can happen during sports activities, such as biking, skiing, soccer, or football, or during everyday activities, such as slipping on ice or tripping on a curb. Older adults, especially those with osteoporosis, are more likely to break their wrist from a minor fall. Osteoporosis is a condition that makes the bones weak and brittle.
The symptoms of a distal radius fracture may include:
Pain and tenderness in the wrist
Swelling and bruising in the wrist and hand
Difficulty moving the wrist and fingers
Deformity of the wrist, such as a bent or crooked appearance
Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers
To diagnose a distal radius fracture, a doctor will ask about the injury and examine the wrist. The doctor will check for signs of nerve or blood vessel damage, such as numbness, coldness, or poor blood flow. The doctor will also order an X-ray to confirm the fracture and determine its type and severity. Sometimes, other imaging tests, such as a CT scan or an MRI, may be needed to assess the damage to the bones, joints, ligaments, and tendons.
The treatment of a distal radius fracture depends on several factors, such as the type and severity of the fracture, the age and health of the patient, and the patient's preferences and goals. The main goals of treatment are to restore the normal function and appearance of the wrist and prevent complications.
The treatment options may include:
Nonsurgical treatment: This involves using a cast, splint, or brace to immobilize the wrist and allow the bone to heal. The doctor may also manipulate the bone fragments into a better position before applying the cast. This is called a closed reduction. Nonsurgical treatment is usually recommended for fractures that are stable, aligned, and not displaced.
Surgical treatment: This involves making an incision and using metal plates, screws, pins, rods, or wires to fix the bone fragments in place. This is called an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). Surgical treatment is usually recommended for fractures that are unstable, displaced, comminuted, or intra-articular. Surgery may also be needed to repair damage to the soft tissues, such as the ligaments and tendons.
The recovery time for a distal radius fracture varies depending on the type and severity of the fracture, the type of treatment, and the patient's overall health and activity level. In general, it may take several weeks to months for the bone to heal and the wrist to regain its strength and range of motion.
The recovery process may include:
Pain management: The doctor may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to ease the pain and inflammation. Ice packs and elevation may also help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Physical therapy: The doctor may refer the patient to a physical therapist who can design an exercise program to improve the flexibility, strength, and function of the wrist and hand. The exercises may start as soon as the cast is removed or after the surgery. The physical therapist may also use modalities, such as heat, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation, to enhance the healing process.
Occupational therapy: The doctor may refer the patient to an occupational therapist who can help the patient resume their daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, cooking, or working. The occupational therapist may also suggest adaptive devices, such as splints, braces, or grips, to make the tasks easier and safer.
Some distal radius fractures may not be preventable, but there are some steps that can reduce the risk of injury, such as:
Wearing protective gear, such as wrist guards, gloves, or helmets, when participating in sports or recreational activities
Avoiding slippery or uneven surfaces and using handrails or assistive devices when walking
Keeping the home and workplace free of clutter and hazards that may cause falls
Treating osteoporosis and other conditions that may weaken the bones
Eating a balanced diet that provides enough calcium and vitamin D for bone health
Doing regular weight-bearing and resistance exercises to strengthen the bones and muscles
