A fractured wrist can be a very painful experience. Depending on the severity of the fracture, there are a variety of treatments that may be recommended by your doctor. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common treatments for fractured wrists and how to go about choosing the best option for you. We will also provide an overview of the recovery process so that you can better understand what to expect.
A wrist fracture is a break in one or more of the eight bones that make up the wrist. It can be caused by a traumatic injury or stress on the joint. There are three main types of fractures: radial head, intra-articular, and avulsion fractures. Each type requires different treatments depending on the severity of the fracture.
Wrist fractures are usually caused by a traumatic injury. This can include direct contact with an object, falling onto an outstretched arm, or twisting the wrist too far in one direction. It is also possible for the fracture to be caused by repetitive stress, such as playing sports or work activities that require continuous strain on the wrist joint.
The first step in treating a wrist fracture is to determine the extent of the injury. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments: casting, bracing, surgery, or physical therapy.
Casting is the most common method of treating a wrist fracture. It involves placing a cast on the arm to keep it in place until the bone has healed. This can take anywhere from four to eight weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture.
Bracing is sometimes used for more severe fractures. The brace helps to keep the wrist in a fixed position and reduce pain. It is usually worn for four to six weeks.
Surgery may be necessary for more severe fractures or when the fracture has not healed properly with casting or bracing. In surgery, the broken bones are realigned and held together by metal plates, screws, or wires. Physical therapy is often necessary after surgery to help regain strength and range of motion.
Recovery from a wrist fracture can take anywhere from four to eight weeks. Depending on the severity of the fracture, it may take longer. During recovery, you will likely experience swelling and pain in the area around your wrist. You may also find that the area is difficult to move. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions during this time.
You should avoid strenuous activities such as lifting heavy objects or playing sports until the fracture has completely healed. Your doctor will likely suggest exercises and stretches to help you regain strength and flexibility in the wrist.
A wrist fracture can be a painful and difficult experience. It is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the best treatment option for you. With proper care and patience, you will soon be able to return to all of your daily activities. Taking the time to understand the different treatments for fractured wrists and what to expect during recovery will help you make the best decisions for your health. We hope this guide has been helpful in providing an overview of fractured wrist treatments and the recovery process in 2023. Thank you for reading and we wish you a speedy recovery!
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