Understanding distal radius fracture 

A distal radius fracture occurs when there is a break in the radius bone near the wrist joint. This type of fracture is quite common and can vary in severity, ranging from a minor crack or break to a displaced fracture that requires surgical intervention. 

Causes of distal radius fracture 

There are various ways a distal radius fracture can occur: 

Falls: Falling onto an outstretched hand is a common cause of this type of fracture, especially among older adults. 

Sports injuries: High-impact sports like skateboarding, skiing, or biking can lead to distal radius fractures if a fall occurs with the hand outstretched to break the impact. 

Accidents: Car accidents or other traumatic events can result in wrist fractures, including distal radius fractures. 

Osteoporosis: Weakening of bones due to conditions like osteoporosis can increase the risk of fractures, including those of the distal radius. 

Symptoms of distal radius fracture 

Recognising the symptoms of a distal radius fracture is crucial for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Common signs include: 

Pain: Sudden pain in the wrist area, which may be severe, especially with movement. 

Swelling: Swelling around the wrist and possibly the hand. 

Bruising: Bruising or discolouration of the skin around the wrist or hand. 

Deformity: The wrist may appear crooked or misshapen if the fracture is displaced. 

Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the wrist, hand, or fingers due to pain and swelling. 

Tenderness: Tenderness or sensitivity when touching the affected area. 

Treatment and recovery 

The treatment of a distal radius fracture depends on the type and severity of the fracture. Common approaches include: 

Consult with an expert: An Accredited Hand Therapist is a physiotherapist or occupational therapist with expertise in the finger, hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder.

Closed reduction: In less severe cases, a medical practitioner/doctor may perform a closed reduction, manually realigning the broken bone fragments. 

Immobilisation: After realignment, the wrist is typically immobilised with a cast or orthosis or brace to allow the bones to heal. 

Surgery: For more complex or displaced fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bones and stabilise them with pins, screws, or plates. 

Rehabilitation exercise: After the initial healing phase, an Accredited Hand Therapist may prescribe exercises to regain wrist strength, flexibility, and range of motion. 

Pain management: Medication, elevation, and rest may help manage the discomfort during the healing process. 

Lifestyle adjustments: Modifying daily activities and using assistive devices can help minimise strain on the healing wrist. 

Find a local Accredited Hand Therapist

Patients can find a local Accredited Hand Therapist on our website using the link below.

Find an Accredited Hand Therapist