Distal Radius Fracture (Broken Wrist)

What it is

Of the ten bones that make up the wrist, the radius, the larger forearm bone, is by far the most commonly broken. A break near its end is called a distal radius fracture. Fractures may be non-displaced (cracked but in place) or displaced (shifted out of place), and stable or unstable.

What causes it

Most wrist fractures come from falling onto an outstretched hand. Higher-energy injuries, such as car accidents or falls from a ladder, cause more severe fractures. Bones weakened by osteoporosis break more easily.

Symptoms

• Pain and swelling at the wrist, with pain on moving the fingers
• Difficulty using the hand, although some people can still move it
• A crooked or deformed-looking wrist
• Tingling or numbness in the fingertips

Seek care right away for a suspected fracture, especially if there is bleeding, numbness, deformity, or severe pain.

Diagnosis

An examination and X-rays show the fracture. A CT scan or MRI may be used for more detail. Some fractures are hard to see on the first X-rays, so repeat X-rays may be recommended. Ligaments, tendons, and nerves can also be injured and are evaluated at the same time.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type of fracture, your age, activities, and dominant hand, and your overall health.

Without surgery: stable fractures can heal in a padded splint or cast. Displaced fractures may first be set (reduced) after numbing the area.

Surgery: unstable or joint-involving fractures may be fixed with plates and screws, pins, or an external fixator. Occasionally a bone graft is added to fill a gap.

Recovery

Keep your fingers moving and your wrist elevated above your heart to control swelling, which is a major cause of pain and stiffness. Wrist motion starts when the fracture allows, and hand therapy is often helpful. It is not unusual for recovery to take months.