Wrist Fractures

What is a wrist fracture (broken wrist)?

The wrist is a joint made up of two major bones in the lower arm that are known as the radius and the ulna. The radius and ulna are connected to the small bones of the hand. A medical professional diagnoses a wrist fracture when the radius or ulna breaks within two inches of the wrist. When this type of fracture occurs in the radius it may be  referred to as a Colles' fracture.

How common is a wrist fracture? 

It has been estimated that there are 250,000 wrist fractures per year in men and women of all ages in the United States.  A wrist fracture is a common type of fracture that occurs in postmenopausal women.

How do you know if you have a broken wrist?

It is common for people to experience pain following a wrist fracture. If you suspect that you have a wrist fracture, it is important to consult a medical professional. He or she will exam your wrist to determine the need for an x-ray. The x-ray can tell if you have a break in the bone. The medical professional may also examine your hand to evaluate whether or not there is damage to the nerves and blood supply.

How do you treat a wrist fracture?

When a wrist fracture is diagnosed usually a cast, splint, or brace is applied to the affected wrist. It is common for the first cast or splint to extend above the elbow. This non- invasive treatment limits movement of the wrist and elbow to allow the fracture to heal. If the wrist fracture is more complicated, a type of surgery called "reduction of the fracture" may be needed to properly align the broken bones.

Is having a broken wrist as an adult a risk factor for osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a silent disease. For many individuals, breaking a wrist may be the first sign of osteoporosis. It is important to determine if you have osteoporosis because research has shown that people who have broken a wrist have an increased risk for a hip fracture.

How do I know if I am at risk for osteoporosis?

By completing a NYSOPEP risk assessment, you can take the first step to help you identify your risk for osteoporosis. Choose the appropriate NYSOPEP Osteoporosis Risk Assessment for you, "Osteoporosis Risk Assessment for Postmenopausal Women", for "Premenopausal Women" or "for Men". It is important to discuss your risk assessment as well as your personal and family history of fracture with your medical professional. After careful review of this information, your medical professional will recommend the appropriate time for you to have a bone mineral density (BMD) test. Early detection of osteoporosis and getting appropriate treatment is essential in order to reduce the risk of any additional fractures.

What type of recovery can I expect after a wrist fracture?

It is important to be followed closely by a medical professional after a wrist fracture. If casting or splinting is required, elevating your arm on a pillow as often as possible may reduce the swelling. In addition, your medical professional may instruct you to do simple hand, finger, and shoulder exercises to prevent stiffness. During the recovery period, your wrist will be x-rayed to make sure that the bones are healing properly. It usually takes broken bones 6 to 12 weeks to heal and rehabilitation can take an additional 12 weeks. This means that full recovery after a wrist fracture can take 18 to 24 weeks.

What type of rehabilitation is usually needed after a wrist fracture?

At first, you may need assistance with simple activities of daily living such as dressing, brushing you teeth, or making your bed. You may find it necessary to ask for help from family or friends. Proper exercise is a major component of rehabilitation throughout the recovery period. Exercise can help reduce stiffness and swelling as well as help maintain strength and mobility in your wrist. Your medical professional may recommend specific exercises or refer you to a physical therapist to get an individualized exercise plan that best meets your needs.

What can I do to promote healthy bones?

It is always important to follow the universal strategies for healthy bones. These strategies include:

• Getting adequate calcium and vitamin D each day.
• Exercising to the extent of your limitations, on a regular basis, using principles of safe movement.
• Avoiding smoking and the use of tobacco products.
• Limiting alcohol consumption - Excessive doses of alcohol are harmful to bones and increase the risk for fractures related to more frequent falls and accidents.

Taking safety precautions to prevent falls is important for everyone but it is a special concern if you have an increased tendency to fall due to a medical condition or the need to take certain medications that cause lightheadedness or dizziness. Following safety strategies in your home and outdoors is imperative to prevent falls.

Reviewing the medications that you take with your medical professional to determine if any may contribute to bone loss. It is important to discuss options with your medical professional and make sure that you are on the lowest possible doses to control your medical condition. Always take the medication prescribed by your medical professional as directed.

Healthy bones are a lifelong commitment.  It is never too early or too late to take the steps to prevent osteoporosis.  At any age you can reduce your risk for falling and breaking a bone.