Wrist fractures or distal radius fractures are one of most common reasons patients see a hand surgeon. They most often occur after a fall on an outstretched hand and in women with osteoporosis. There is a wide spectrum of injuries with multiple treatment options depending on the patients age/health and the demands on the wrist. Well-aligned and minimally displaced fractures can be treated without surgery in a splint/cast. Displaced fractures benefit from early fixation to prevent them from healing in the wrong position. This is achieved using plates and screws is performed as an outpatient. In both cases fractures typically take 6-8 weeks to heal. Surgery does not help the fractures heal faster but it helps keeps the bones aligned. 

Wrist Fracture Diagnosis

Below is a normal xray outline what we consider as normal wrist parameters.

Below is a broken, and fixed wrist , as you can see there is increased tilt. This tilt effects your final range of motion and determines where the joint is loaded.  

Wrist Fracture Treatment

After a fracture you can expect the most pain during the first 2 weeks. In both operative and non-operative injuries patients will have stiffness. I recommend that you perform you home exercises to maintain good finger motion and avoid lifting until cleared. Most people return to full activities 3-4 months after injury. Therapy is sometimes recommended to help regain motion. During recovery, it is very important to keep your fingers moving to keep them from getting stiff. Recovery time varies and depends on a lot of factors. It is not unusual for recovery to take months. Even then, some patients may have stiffness or aching. Severe wrist fractures can result in arthritis in the joint. Occasionally, additional treatment or surgery is needed.

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Hand Exercises