If you think you may have fractured your wrist, it is important to seek medical attention right away. While some fractures may not cause too much pain, others can be quite painful and debilitating. In this blog post, we will discuss the five most common signs of a fractured wrist. Keep reading to learn more!
If you suspect that you may have a fractured wrist, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Fractured wrists can range from minor to very severe and if left untreated, they can cause pain and long-term damage. The five most common signs of a fractured wrist are:
Pain is a common symptom of a fractured wrist. Depending on the severity of the fracture, it may be felt as mild soreness or intense sharp pain at the site of injury. Pain can also radiate to nearby areas such as the elbow, forearm, and shoulder when moving the wrist. Swelling, bruising, and difficulty in the movement are also common symptoms of a fractured wrist. If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical attention for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment may include wearing a cast or brace, taking pain medications, physical therapy, or in some cases surgery. Prompt treatment is necessary to ensure the best possible outcome and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Tenderness is one of the most common symptoms of a fractured wrist, as the area around the fracture site can become very tender to the touch. In some cases, even light pressure may cause pain in the affected area. People with a fractured wrist may also experience swelling and bruising around their injured wrist due to inflammation caused by the fracture. In some cases, movement of the wrist may also cause pain and discomfort. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of a fractured wrist, as prompt treatment can help ensure a successful recovery.
The deformity is one of the most common signs of a fractured wrist. A broken wrist will usually cause the bones to shift out of their normal position, which can lead to a visible deformity in the area. The wrist may appear bent or twisted at an abnormal angle, and there may also be swelling or bruising around the affected area. Sometimes, the skin may be pushed out of place or appear lumpy. In more severe cases, the bone may protrude from the skin. The deformity is typically a sign that medical attention should be sought immediately. If left untreated, a fractured wrist can lead to long-term complications such as chronic pain and decreased range of motion in the wrist.
Bruising can be a symptom of a fractured wrist if the fracture is caused by blunt force trauma. If the injury has been accompanied by swelling, pain, and reduced range of motion in the wrist, then bruising may also develop due to bleeding within the area around the fracture site. It is more likely that bruising will occur with a severe fracture, such as a displaced fracture or a comminuted fracture due to the additional bleeding at the fracture site. Bruising can also be present in other types of fractures, such as stress fractures caused by repetitive motion. In these cases, bruising may still occur but is likely to be less extensive than with other kinds of fractures.
It is important to note that bruising around the wrist should not be taken lightly. If a fracture is suspected, it is essential to seek medical attention in order to accurately diagnose the injury and develop an appropriate treatment plan. If a fracture is left untreated, further complications can arise, including deformity or even permanent loss of function. Prompt medical care is always recommended if bruising is present after an injury.
When a person has fractured their wrist, it can lead to a decrease in the range of motion and strength in the injured hand. This is due to swelling, pain, and instability around the fracture site which can limit the movement of the joint. Loss of function can also occur due to disruption of nerves or tendons that run through or near the fracture site, leading to decreased sensation and decreased ability to move the wrist or finger joints. This can cause difficulty with everyday tasks such as grasping items or writing. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the bone, nerves, and tendons in order for full strength and mobility to return. Physical therapy may also be needed for complete recovery of the wrist’s function.
If you think that you may have fractured your wrist, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Treatment for fractures depends on the severity of the fracture but will typically involve immobilization with a cast or splint, pain relief medications, and physical therapy.
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned in this blog post, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor will be able to determine if you have a fractured wrist and provide you with the best treatment plan possible. Don’t wait – get help now!
Dr. Chen sees patients at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital Center for Sports Medicine in Walnut Creek, California. He is a board-certified Pediatrician and Sports Medicine Doctor that specializes in the non-operative medical treatment of a wide variety of various musculoskeletal conditions. Dr. Chen graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine and went on to complete Pediatric residency training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey (Rutgers), then went on to fellowship training in Sports Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, one of the perennially top ranked children’s hospitals in the nation. There he provided sideline coverage for NCAA Division I athletics at the University of Cincinnati and Miami University (OH). Since graduating, Dr. Chen has continued his love of sports coverage by volunteering for the San Francisco Marathon, the San Francisco Giant Race, and as the team physician for Northgate High School in Walnut Creek. Being a part of The Center for Sports Medicine allows Dr. Chen quick access to a multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, physiatrists, and physical therapists to return you to your highest functional level quickly and safely. Click here to contact us for your next appointment!
925-934-3536
stephen.chen@eastbaysportsdoc.com