At Arora Hand Surgery, we treat a variety of conditions and injuries of the hands and wrists. Broken wrists are a common injury. They are usually caused by falls. People tend to try and catch themselves with their open hands when falling. The delicate wrist bones can fracture or crack under the pressure. If you are not aware of what the broken wrist symptoms are, it is easy to not realize the severity of your injury.
Risk Factors for Wrist Injury
People who play certain sports are more susceptible to injury of the wrist. High-risk sporting activities include:
- Soccer
- Football
- Equestrian sports
- Rugby
- Roller and inline skating
- Hockey
- Trampolining
Those with osteoporosis, which is a condition causing thinning of the bones, are at higher risk of injury.
It is important that fractured or broken wrists be treated as soon as possible. When the injury heals without proper care, the bones can fuse together misaligned. Improperly aligned bones, in a crucial area such as the wrist, can make even simple activities difficult. Daily tasks like writing or using buttons can become very difficult.
Potential complications can include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Perpetual stiffness of the wrist
- Aching
- Disability
- Nerve damage
- Damage to blood vessels
- Decreased range of motion
- Decreased grip strength
The earlier you seek treatment, the more likely serious conditions can be avoided.
A Closer Look at Broken Wrist Symptoms
The first step in preventing further injury or disability to your wrist is identifying the symptoms of a fracture or break. The first and most obvious signs often occur immediately following the injury. You may experience severe pain that is exasperated by trying to move your wrist or hand. You may also have pain when trying to grip things, squeeze or clench your fists. Additional signs you should look for include:
- Tenderness in the area
- Swelling of the hand or wrist
- Bruising
- Stiffness of the fingers or thumb
- Inability to move the fingers or thumb
- Numbness in your fingers
- Numbness in your hand
Whenever there is a deformity in the area such as a bent wrist or crooked finger, it is a clear indication of damage.
If there is any question about the possibility of a fracture or break of the wrist, you should see our doctor as soon as possible. A loss of regular motor control, numbness, or swelling are serious signs that should never be ignored. Failing to do so could lead to long-term consequences.
If you are experiencing any of the broken wrist symptoms that were discussed here, or other unexplained symptoms, we urge you to call us at Arora Hand Surgery in West Bloomfield, Howell, Warren, or Macomb. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
