A wrist fracture can occur due to an accident, falling down on an outstretched hand, a sports injury, a car accident, and much more. Thankfully, there are non-surgical and surgical treatment options available to restore full range of motion.
What are Wrist Fractures?
The wrist joint connects the hand to the forearm. When a wrist is fractured, it can mean that one of the small carpal bones in the joint, or the larger of the two bones that make up the forearm (distal radius) is broken. Wrist fractures can occur from an injury, severe trauma, or weak bones.
Treatment Options
To diagnose a wrist fracture, your doctor will perform a physical exam and have you undergo imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, and/or X-rays. Fractures can range from mild to severe. Therefore, treatment may differ depending on many factors including the type of fracture, your age, and overall
health, your hobbies, and more.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For non-displaced fractures, splints or casts may be used for treatment. Physical therapy may be needed
following healing to help you regain strength and restore your full range of motion.
Surgical Treatment
Wrist fracture surgery may involve the implantation of pins, rods, plates, or screws to hold your bones in place while they heal. A bone graft may also be used to help with healing. Following surgery, it is important that you restrict the movement of the broken bone to ensure proper healing. Your doctor will
discuss your personalized healing instructions depending on the specifics of your surgery.
