![]() ![]() Less commonly, but still present neurological concerns include both radial and ulnar nerve compression. Up to 15% of these fractures may show symptoms of acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS) from compression to the median nerve. A compromise would necessitate immediate attempts at closed reduction. Įvaluation of the extremity's neurovascular status is imperative. There may also be an association of ulnar styloid base fractures. In addition to the volar displacement of the distal fragment, disruption of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) and the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) often occurs. One of Smith’s first diagnostic criteria was a deformed wrist with swelling visible on the volar side and the prominence of the ulna along the dorsum of the wrist. ![]() Also, present on the exam are swelling, pain, and decreased ROM. The physical exam may reveal a deformity of the distal forearm, but the direction of angulation- dorsal (Colles) or volar (Smith) is difficult to discern on visualization. Data appears to support a direct correlation between low-energy trauma-induced distal radius fracture and decreased bone mineral density. Between the ages of 64 to 94, women are six times more likely than men to sustain this type of fracture. In the elderly population, distal radial fractures are the second most common fracture, second only to hip fractures. Almost all distal radius fractures arise in children sustaining high-energy falls and osteoporotic seniors who suffer low-energy falls. The highest incidence of Smith's fractures is in young males and elderly females. However, Smith fractures make up approximately 5% of all radial and ulnar fractures combined. Distal radial fractures are the second most common fracture in the elderly. With over 600000 cases annually in the United States alone, distal radial fractures account for more than 16% of all adult fractures and 75% of forearm fractures. It will help protect your wrist if you fall.The distal radius is the most common fracture site in the upper extremity. Wear a wrist guard if you do activities that raise your risk of getting a Colles’ wrist fracture. Strength training routines, which include exercises like weightlifting, target the muscles and bones in the upper half of your body. Weight-bearing exercises such as jogging strengthen the bones and muscles in the lower half of your body. ExerciseĮxercise helps strengthen your bones and muscles, which makes you less likely to fall and fracture a bone. You can take supplements if you can’t get enough from sunlight and your diet. Eating foods that contain vitamin D, such as salmon, can help you get the amount you need. You may need additional vitamin D if you don’t go outside much or if you use sunscreen every time you’re in the sun. You can get enough vitamin D from sunlight. If your diet isn’t giving you enough calcium, you can make up for it by taking calcium supplements. Make sure you’re getting enough calcium by eating dark, leafy green vegetables and low-fat dairy products fortified with calcium. Preventing a Colles’ wrist fracture Nutrition You’ll do exercises to help rebuild strength in your wrist and regain your normal range of motion. Physical therapyĭepending on the severity of your injury, you might have to work with a physical therapist or occupational therapist. After surgery, you may need to wear a splint or cast to immobilize your wrist and help with pain relief. Your bones will be straightened and held together using pins, a plate and screws, or an external device that holds the pins in place. If your wrist is severely fractured, your doctor will recommend surgery to correct it. In most cases, the cast is taken off after a few weeks. ![]() This procedure, called a reduction, is done before your wrist is put in the cast. They may need to straighten the bone if the fracture is displaced. If your fracture isn’t serious, your doctor might place your wrist in a lightweight cast or splint and let it heal. Go straight to the emergency room if the pain is severe or if your wrist is numb. Schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately, or go to an urgent care center for medical treatment. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help relieve pain.ĭon’t try to straighten your wrist, and avoid moving it around. Putting an ice pack on the injury also helps reduce swelling. Elevate your wrist above the level of your heart to prevent further swelling. You can simply use a magazine wrapped around your wrist to help support it. The most important treatment initially is immobilizing your wrist in a splint. ![]()
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