What are Hand and Wrist Fractures?
Also known as a distal radius fracture, a broken wrist is a common condition that occurs in the larger bone of the forearm, near the wrist joint. Depending on the severity of the break, the fracture itself may only affect the forearm or extend all the way into the wrist joint itself.
Causes of Hand and Wrist Fractures
It’s important to know the difference between a broken wrist and a sprain. A wrist sprain is a common injury to the ligament, while a fracture is an injury to the bone. Often, fractures occur in people who suffer from weakened bones due to osteoporosis. Other common causes include:
- Falling onto the outstretched arm/wrist.
- Being hit on the wrist.
- Partaking in high-energy sports, such as football or mountain climbing.
The type of fracture may also depend on the condition of the bone. The most common wrist fracture types include:
- Distal radius fracture – the most common type of fracture that occurs when the radius bone (thumb side of the forearm) breaks at the wrist end. There are two types:
- Radial fracture – occurs when the pointed tip at the end of the radius bone is broken.
- Distal ulna fracture – occurs when the long bone on the pinky side breaks. Typically occurs as a result of falling directly onto an outstretched arm.
- Hairline fracture – occurs when there is a small crack in the bone.
- Scaphoid fracture – caused by a break in the small bone at the thumb side of the wrist. Most noticeable when pinching or grabbing an object.
- Buckle wrist fracture – occurs when the bone buckles from impact but stays intact. Most common in children.
- Barton’s fracture – caused by landing on a bent wrist, which breaks a bone and dislocates another bone. Typically requires surgery to correct.
Symptoms of Hand and Wrist Fractures
Symptoms of a hand or wrist fracture will vary from person to person. Even if you are experiencing only some of the symptoms below, your wrist could still be fractured. Contact your provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Wrist pain, especially when flexing
- Loss of color in the fingers
- Bruising or swelling of the wrist or hand
- Wrist deformity or unusual bending
- Tenderness of the wrist or hand
- Pain with gripping or pinching objects
- Limited range of motion
Diagnosis and Treatment for Hand and Wrist Fractures
To determine the severity and treatment for your injury, your provider will perform a physical exam and review medical history to learn about previous wrist pain. Imaging tests will likely be needed to evaluate the location and severity of the fracture.
A broken wrist does not always require surgery. Often, a broken wrist can be repaired using conservative treatments, including:
- Cast
- Splints
- Ice
- Elevation
- Pain and anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
If your injury has caused your bones to shift out of place or break through the skin, your provider may recommend surgery to restore proper alignment and function of your wrist. '
Risk Factors for Hand and Wrist Fractures
Certain sports, activities, trauma and bone conditions can put you more at risk for a hand or wrist fracture. The most common risk factors include:
- High-impact sports, such as football, hockey or wrestling.
- Direct trauma from cars, bikes, or motorcycle accidents.
- Bone conditions, such as osteoporosis.
Anyone can end up with a hand or wrist fracture, but there are ways to reduce your risk.
- Protect your hand or wrist during a fall and try not to break your fall using your hand or wrist.
- Avoid high-impact sports that increase your risk or wear appropriate protection while doing so.
- Build bone strength with exercise.