A distal radial fracture, commonly called a broken wrist, affects the larger of the two bones of the forearm close to the wrist. A broken wrist is the most common fracture of the arm and represents 10 percent of total fractures that occur in the United States. This injury typically occurs from falling on an outstretched arm or while biking, skiing, skating, or playing a contact sport.
 
 
When is a Wrist Injury Severe?

The recovery time for a broken wrist depends on the severity of the fracture. Fractures that are more severe will take longer to heal than other breaks. This includes when the break affects the wrist joint, when the bone is broken in more than one place, when the broken bone protrudes through the skin, when the fractured bone moves out of place, or when a ligament, blood vessel, or nerve is torn or injured as a result of the injury.

How is a Wrist Injury Diagnosed?

If you’ve had an injury to the wrist, have it checked out if you are experiencing tenderness, pain, swelling, bruising, or a crooked or bent appearance. Seek emergency medical attention if you are experiencing severe pain, your hand and/or arm is numb, or blood has drained from your fingers. Our doctor will examine your hand and arm as well as take X-rays to determine whether a bone is broken.

How is a Wrist Injury Treated?

Depending on the severity of the fracture, the bone may need to be reset. This can be quite involved and is usually done under anesthesia. Once the broken bone is in the correct position to heal, it will be held in place with a splint after the injury. This gives swelling a chance to resolve before a cast is put on the arm. Regular X-rays will be conducted to make sure the bone is healing correctly.

Your treatment for a broken wrist at Arora Hand Surgery will depend on a multitude of factors. Make an appointment at our office in West Bloomfield, Howell, Macomb, or Warren to learn about your treatment options. Contact us today to book your evaluation!