Wrist Fractures
Description
A broken wrist is a pretty common injury and accounts for plenty of emergency room visits. Treatment depends on the severity of the break, as well as which of the three wrist bones (radius, scaphoid, ulna) is broken. Keep reading to learn more.
Causes & Triggers
- Falls
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Osteoporosis
- Sports injuries
- Trauma
Signs & Symptoms
- Bruising
- Deformed appearance (though not always)
- Inability to grip
- Pain that does not go away within 24 hours
- Swelling
- Tenderness
Tips & Treatment
- Although both genders and all ages can experience wrist fracture, it commonly happens to men ages 20-30.
- Seek immediate medical treatment to avoid improper healing, reduced grip strength or limited range of motion.
- X-ray, MRI, splinting and/or casting may be required.
- Depending on the type and severity of wrist fracture, surgical intervention may be required.
- Consult an orthopedic hand specialist for symptom relief and treatment options.
