At some point in time, many people suffer from a broken wrist. Children and the elderly are at higher risk for this common injury. Follow along for more important information about symptoms and treatment options for a broken wrist.
There are eight small bones that make up your wrist called carpal bones. And there are two longer bones attached in your forearm called the radius and the ulna. These bones work together to allow your wrist to move and bend.
The wrist allows four different movements: Flexion, extension, adduction and abduction. Most wrist injuries occur after people try and catch themselves when falling. An unexpected and awkward landing causes the bones in a person’s wrist to break or crack after taking the brunt of the fall. Along with falls, sports injuries and motor vehicle crashes are common causes of a broken wrist.
Signs and Symptoms of a Broken Wrist
If you have sustained an injury to your wrist, there are many signs and symptoms you might experience including the following:
● Pain when gripping or squeezing your hand
● Swelling
● Tenderness
● Bruising
● Deformity
● Stiffness
● Loss of motion
● Numbness
All of the above symptoms can be indicators of a broken wrist. It is important to pay attention to these symptoms before your pain worsens. You will want to seek medical treatment immediately if you suspect a broken wrist.
When you meet with a physician, you should be prepared to provide a detailed description of how the wrist injury occurred, as well as any past medical problems you have. If your doctor suspects a broken wrist, imaging scans like x-rays may be required to further examine the injury.
If your doctor diagnoses you with a broken wrist, he or she will manipulate your bones to place them back to their proper alignment. After this process, your physician will most likely immobilize this area with either a splint or a cast. Your physician will also prescribe anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling in your wrist. After removing your cast, your physician may prescribe physical therapy in order to get proper movement back in your wrist.
If these treatments aren’t capable of healing the affected area, your physician may suggest a surgical option to heal these multiple fractures or other damages sustained to this area.
It is very difficult to prevent a broken wrist due to falls, however you can take precautions by maintaining a healthy diet full of nutritious foods and vitamins. Try preventing falls by wearing proper shoes, using handrails and avoiding common tripping hazards when possible. Lastly, always wear recommended protective gear during athletic activities and remember to pay attention to your surroundings.
Wrist injuries can happen to anyone at any age. If you or someone you know is having some of the signs and symptoms associated with a broken wrist, seek medical attention immediately. If you need medical attention in the Louisville-Kentucky area for a broken wrist, Orthopaedic Specialists can help. For more info or to make an appointment, call 502-212-2663.
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