A wrist fracture is a break in one of the bones of the wrist. The wrist is made of the forearm bones called the radius and the ulna and the eight carpal bones located at the base of the hand.
Causes of Wrist Fracture
- Accidents such as falling off a bike or a ladder
- Attempting to stop a call with an outstretched hand and arm Motorcycle or car accidents
- Overuse or repetitive stress on the wrist Playing sports
- Conditions where there is weakening of the bones such as Osteoporosis
Symptoms of Wrist Fracture
- Pain which may worsen with movement
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Limited range of motion
- Bruising
- Numbness or pins and needles sensation if there’s pressure on nerves
- Dinner fork deformity – a type of deformity commonly seen in wrist fractures where the distal part of the radius is displaced upwards and backwards
Wrist fracture is more common in people who relate to the following
- More common in males before the age of 60 and more common in females after the age of 60
- Obese individuals
- Individuals who drink or smoke often
- Athletes or individuals who participate in contact sports
Physiotherapy Treatment for Wrist Fracture
Physiotherapy plays an important role in the rehabilitation of wrist fractures. The main goal would be a reduction of pain with heat and cold therapy and restoration of range of motion with gentle mobilization. Once healing progresses, the focus will be more on restoring strength and flexibility by introducing coordination and strengthening exercises.
If you have had an injury to the wrist or a wrist fracture, book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists to get going on your road to recovery.
