What is a Distal Radius Fracture?

A distal radius fracture is a common injury that is often referred to as a broken wrist. It happens when the radius bone, one of the two bones in the forearm, breaks near the wrist joint. This part of the radius is called the distal radius. Most often, this fracture results from a fall onto an outstretched or bent hand. The injury can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes an odd-looking wrist. Understanding this injury, how it happens, and what treatment is needed can make a big difference in recovery.

What Is a Distal Radius Fracture?

The forearm contains two bones: the radius and the ulna. The radius is the larger one on the thumb side. The distal radius is the end of the radius closest to the wrist. It forms about 80% of the wrist joint surface and supports much of the load when using the hand. Because it handles so much stress, it is prone to breaking during falls or impacts.

Types of Distal Radius Fractures

There are several types of distal radius fractures. The two most common are:

• Colles fracture: Occurs when you fall on an outstretched hand with the wrist bent backwards. The broken fragment shifts upwards, creating a bump on the back of the wrist.
  
• Smith fracture: Happens when you fall on a wrist bent forward. The broken fragment shifts downwards, causing a dip on the palm side.
  
  

Other types include fractures that affect the wrist joint surface (intra-articular) or do not (extra-articular). Some fractures are open, where the bone breaks through the skin. Others are comminuted, where the bone breaks into multiple pieces. Complex fractures involve multiple fragments and may need more advanced treatment.

Symptoms of a Distal Radius Fracture

Typical symptoms of a distal radius fracture include:

• Sudden, severe pain at the wrist
  
• Tenderness when the area is touched
  
• Swelling and bruising around the wrist
  
• Visible deformity or abnormal wrist position
  
• Difficulty moving the wrist or hand
  
  

Diagnosis

When you see a doctor for a suspected distal radius fracture, they’ll first examine your wrist for pain, swelling, and any unusual shape. To be sure about the break and how bad it is, they’ll usually take X-rays. If things look complicated, a CT scan might be needed to get a better view of the bone pieces. Sometimes, if there’s concern about ligament or soft tissue damage, an MRI could be done. For older patients, doctors often check bone density to see if osteoporosis might affect healing.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the fracture’s type and stability, as well as the patient’s needs.

Non-Surgical Treatment

If the fracture is stable and properly aligned, a cast or splint is applied to immobilise the wrist. The cast usually stays on for about six weeks, with regular X-rays to monitor healing. After the cast is removed, a removable splint may be worn for added support. Physical therapy begins after immobilisation to restore wrist movement and strength.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is needed if the fracture is unstable, displaced, or involves the joint surface. Surgical methods include:

• Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): Plates and screws are used to hold bone fragments together through an incision on the palm side.
  
• Percutaneous pinning: Pins inserted through the skin stabilise the bones, often combined with casting.
  
• External fixation: An external frame with pins secures the bone, usually for more complex fractures.
  
  

Recovery and Prognosis

Bones generally take about six weeks to heal, but full recovery depends on the fracture’s severity and treatment. Physical therapy helps restore strength and motion. Some patients may experience stiffness, arthritis, or nerve issues. Close follow-up and adherence to therapy improve outcomes.

Individualised Treatment Approach

Each fracture is unique. Treatment plans are personalised based on:

• Fracture pattern and severity
  
• Patient age and bone health
  
• Dominant hand and activity level
  
• Overall health and lifestyle
  
  

Tailoring treatment helps patients regain wrist function and return to daily activities.

Wrist Supports for Distal Radius Fracture Recovery

During recovery, the TFCC Support Wrist Brace offers strong stability for ligament or ulnar side issues. The UltraFlex Wrist Brace provides light, breathable support for everyday use. If your thumb needs extra help, the ErgoThumb Spica Splint keeps both thumb and wrist steady. These supports help ease pain and protect your wrist as it heals.

Also read : What are Buckle Fractures

When to Seek Medical Help

If you suspect a wrist fracture after an injury, see a doctor immediately. Urgent care is needed if you have:

• Severe pain or swelling
  
• Visible deformity
  
• Inability to move your wrist or fingers
  
• Numbness or tingling in the hand
  
  

Early treatment prevents complications and promotes better healing.

Summary

A distal radius fracture is a break near the wrist on the radius bone. It commonly occurs from falls or trauma and varies in severity. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and imaging. Treatments range from casting to surgery, depending on the fracture. Recovery includes immobilisation and therapy, with a focus on personalised care. Prompt medical attention and proper rehabilitation are keys to regaining wrist function and avoiding long-term issues.