Wrist Fracture

A wrist fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in the wrist. The wrist is made up of eight small bones, and a fracture can occur in any of these bones. The most common type of wrist fracture is a distal radius fracture, which occurs when the radius bone in the forearm breaks near the wrist joint.

Causes and Risk Factors

A wrist fracture can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Falls onto an outstretched hand
• Sports injuries, such as those that occur in football, basketball, or soccer
• Car accidents
• Osteoporosis, which can weaken the bones and make them more susceptible to fractures

Symptoms

The symptoms of a wrist fracture may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the wrist
• Swelling or bruising in the wrist
• Difficulty moving the wrist or hand
• Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers
• A visible deformity or abnormal shape to the wrist

Diagnosis

A wrist fracture is typically diagnosed with a physical examination and imaging tests, such as:

• X-rays: to confirm the presence of a fracture and to determine its location and severity
• CT scans or MRI scans: to get a more detailed view of the fracture and surrounding tissues

Treatment

The treatment for a wrist fracture depends on the severity and location of the break. Treatment options may include:

• Immobilization: wearing a cast or splint to keep the wrist still and allow it to heal
• Pain management: taking pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to manage discomfort
• Physical therapy: performing exercises to regain strength and range of motion in the wrist and hand
• Surgery: in some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bones, especially if the fracture is complex or unstable

Complications

As with any injury, there are potential complications that can occur with a wrist fracture, including:

• Nerve damage: which can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers
• Arthritis: which can develop over time due to the abnormal alignment of the bones
• Stiffness: which can occur if the wrist is not properly rehabilitated after the fracture has healed

Prevention

To reduce the risk of a wrist fracture, it's essential to:

• Wear protective gear, such as wrist guards, when participating in sports or activities that carry a high risk of falls
• Maintain good bone health through a balanced diet and regular exercise
• Avoid falls by removing tripping hazards and using handrails when walking up or down stairs