Broken Arm or Wrist

A broken arm or wrist, also known as a fracture, occurs when one or more of the bones in the arm or wrist are cracked or broken. This can happen due to various reasons such as falls, sports injuries, or direct blows to the area.

Types of Fractures

• Non-displaced fracture: The bone is cracked but still in its normal position.
• Displaced fracture: The bone is broken into two or more pieces and is out of place.
• Comminuted fracture: The bone is broken into three or more pieces.
• Greenstick fracture: A type of fracture that occurs in children, where the bone is bent but not completely broken.

Symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Swelling or bruising
• Difficulty moving the arm or wrist
• Deformity or abnormal shape of the arm or wrist
• Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers

Causes

• Falls onto an outstretched hand
• Sports injuries, such as football or hockey
• Direct blows to the arm or wrist
• Osteoporosis, which can weaken bones and make them more prone to fractures

Treatment

• Immobilization: The affected area is immobilized in a cast or splint to allow the bone to heal.
• Pain management: Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bones.
• Physical therapy: After the bone has healed, physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and mobility in the arm or wrist.

Complications

• Nerve damage
• Blood vessel damage
• Infection
• Malunion or nonunion of the bone, which can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility

Prevention

• Wearing protective gear, such as wrist guards, during sports activities
• Avoiding falls by using handrails when walking up or down stairs
• Maintaining strong bones through a healthy diet and regular exercise
• Avoiding osteoporosis by getting enough calcium and vitamin D

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a broken arm or wrist?
A break or fracture in one or more bones of the arm or wrist.

What are the common causes of a broken arm or wrist?
Falls, sports injuries, and accidents can cause breaks or fractures.

What are the symptoms of a broken arm or wrist?
Pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility are typical symptoms.

How is a broken arm or wrist diagnosed?
X-rays and physical exams are usually used for diagnosis.

What are the treatment options for a broken arm or wrist?
Treatment may include casting, splinting, surgery, or physical therapy.

How long does it usually take to recover from a broken arm or wrist?
Recovery time varies, typically ranging from several weeks to months.

Can a broken arm or wrist be prevented?
Some breaks may be unavoidable, but precautions like wearing protective gear can reduce risk.

What are potential complications of a broken arm or wrist?
Infection, nerve damage, and improper healing are possible complications.

When should I seek medical attention for a suspected broken arm or wrist?
Seek immediate medical help if severe pain, numbness, or deformity occurs.

Can I still have use of my arm or wrist while it heals?
Limited use may be possible, depending on the severity and type of break.