A broken wrist fracture, also known as a wrist fracture, is a common injury that involves a break or crack in one or more of your wrist joint bones. The wrist joint consists of several small bones, the radius, ulna, and carpal bones, which connect the hand to the forearm. Wrist fractures can occur in any of these bones, but fractures of the distal radius (the end of the radius bone near the wrist) are the most common type.
Treatment for wrist injuries depends on the specific type and severity of the injury but may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), splinting or casting, pain-relieving medications, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical intervention. It’s essential to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment of wrist injuries to prevent complications and promote healing.
Fractures of the wrist can result from various causes, including:
Falls: Falling onto an outstretched hand is one of the most common causes of wrist fractures. This can occur during activities such as slipping on ice, tripping over an object, or falling from a height.
Sports Injuries: Participating in sports that involve high-impact or contact, such as football, soccer, or skateboarding, can increase the risk of wrist fractures, especially if proper protective gear is not worn.
Motor Vehicle Accidents: Traumatic injuries sustained in car accidents or other motor vehicle collisions can result in wrist fractures, particularly if the hands are extended to brace against impact.
Direct Trauma: Direct blows or impacts to the wrist, such as from a heavy object falling onto the hand or striking the wrist forcefully against a hard surface, can cause fractures.
Osteoporosis: Weakening of the bones due to conditions like arthritis can increase the risk of fractures, including wrist fractures, even with minimal trauma.
When the sun is out, we all enjoy the warm weather and make the most of each summer day!
Everyone loves taking part in outdoor activities and visiting the beach.
Unfortunately, many falls happen during summer water and beach activities. A common injury is spraining your wrist when you bend it the wrong way or fall over and land on it. Even more serious is a fracture.
Wrist sprains and fractures are injuries that occur from direct impact, but they involve different parts of your wrist and have different symptoms, treatments, and recovery time.
• A wrist sprain involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments, which are the tissues that connect bones to each other. Often caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand or a sudden twist or impact to the wrist. Usually, there is swelling, bruising, and pain, especially when you move your wrist.
• A wrist fracture involves a break in one or more of the bones in the wrist. The most common bone broken in the wrist is the radius (distal radius fracture). Often caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand combined with severe twisting motion or hard impact. Most patients will feel severe pain, especially immediately after the injury, with a bent or crooked appearance and the inability to move their hands or fingers. A trip to the emergency room may be the first place you will need to go, depending on the severity of your injury.
If you suspect you have had a wrist injury, seeking medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is vitally important. Early and appropriate care can help prevent complications and ensure a better recovery.
Contact Expert Orthopedic Doctor, Dr. Stephen W. Pournaras, Jr. treating fractures & trauma to your wrist.
Heal safely and correctly. Urgent Care Appointments available.
3998 Fair Ridge Dr., Suite 100 Fairfax, Va 22033
Mon 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Tue 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Wed 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Thu 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Fri 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
Sat Closed
Sun Closed
For over 30 years, Virginia Board Certified Physician, Dr. Stephen W. Pournaras, Jr. has provided excellent healthcare and treatment for his patients. As a multi-specialty orthopedic practice, offering the best for you medically to treat, heal and lead you to optimum recovery. We are dedicated to using state-of-the-art technology while building nurturing relationships with each of our patients.
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