Broken Wrist – Overview
A broken wrist is a fracture in one or more of the bones that make up the wrist joint, typically the radius, ulna, or carpal bones. A broken wrist most commonly occurs when a person falls onto an outstretched hand, though it can also result from direct trauma, sports injuries, or accidents. In South Africa, wrist fractures are especially common among children, active adults, and the elderly.
The wrist includes eight small carpal bones and two long forearm bones. While a fracture can affect any of them, the distal radius—on the thumb side—is the most commonly injured.
4o. Breaks can be simple cracks, displaced fractures where bones shift out of alignment, or comminuted fractures where the bone shatters into multiple pieces. Open fractures, where the bone pierces the skin, are serious and require urgent surgery.
Symptoms of a broken wrist include sudden pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty moving the hand or wrist. In many cases, the wrist appears deformed or bent at an unnatural angle. A popping sound at the time of injury is also commonly reported. Some people mistake the injury for a sprain, especially if pain is tolerable, but continuing to use the hand can worsen the fracture and delay healing.
Broken Wrist
Doctors typically diagnose wrist fractures through physical examination and X-rays. In complex or unclear cases, doctors may use CT or MRI scans to assess damage to small bones or ligaments. Treatment depends on the type of fracture and may involve a splint, cast, or surgery. Surgical repair is often necessary if the bones are unstable or misaligned.
Recovering from a broken wrist can take anywhere from six to twelve weeks or more. Physiotherapy is often essential to restore mobility, strength, and fine motor skills. Without proper rehabilitation, long-term issues like stiffness, nerve pain, or arthritis can occur.
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