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