A fractured wrist can be a very painful experience. Not only is it difficult to use the hand and arm, but it can also take a long time to heal. Depending on the severity of the fracture, there are a few different treatment options available. In this blog post, we will discuss the 5 most popular forms of treatment for a fractured wrist.
A fractured wrist is a break in one or more of the bones in the wrist. There are eight bones that make up the wrist, and fractures can occur either to one bone or multiple. Depending on how severe the fracture is, it can take anywhere from four to sixteen weeks for the fracture to heal completely.
Splinting is a common treatment option for fractured wrists because it helps to immobilize the joint and promote healing. To splint, a medical professional wraps or tapes the broken bones together in order to keep them aligned and in place while they heal. The splint also helps to reduce pain and discomfort associated with the movement of the wrist. A splint may be worn for several weeks or months and should generally not be removed until cleared by a doctor. Splinting is usually done in combination with other treatments such as pain medication, icing, physical therapy, and rest. In more severe cases of fractures, surgery may be necessary to properly align the bones. The type of splint used will depend on the type and location of the fracture. A qualified healthcare provider will be able to determine the best splint for your case. In some cases, a cast may also be used instead of a splint.
It is important to follow all instructions from your doctor when it comes to wearing the splint in order to ensure proper healing. Make sure to keep the splint dry, and avoid activities that could cause further injury. With proper treatment and care, most fractured wrists heal without complications. However, if your symptoms do not improve or worsen over time seek medical attention right away. Splinting can be an effective way to treat a fractured wrist and help you get back to normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.
Casting is commonly used to treat a fractured wrist. The cast helps to keep the bones of the fractured wrist in proper alignment, allowing them to heal properly and with minimal complications. It also provides support and protection from further injury or dislocation during healing. In some cases, doctors may recommend wearing a removable splint instead of a full cast. This type of treatment is typically used to treat less serious fractures. In either case, the cast or splint should be worn as directed by your doctor and adjusted when necessary during the healing process. It is important to pay close attention to your doctor’s instructions regarding the use of the cast or splint, activity level, and potential signs of infection. Your doctor may also prescribe physical therapy or prescribe pain relief medications to help with the healing process. Following your doctor’s instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during recovery is essential for the proper healing of a fractured wrist.
Physical therapy can be a key part of recovery from a broken wrist. Physical therapists are trained to help patients regain their range of motion, strength, and proper form after an injury or surgery. A physical therapist may design a custom treatment plan for each individual depending on the severity of their fracture and any special needs they may have due to other medical conditions or age. Treatment may include stretching and range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, balance training, functional activities to increase dexterity and coordination, and modalities such as heat or ice therapy. In addition to the physical rehabilitation goals, physical therapists can also assist the patient with pain management techniques like relaxation techniques or lifestyle changes that improve sleep quality or nutrition. Ultimately, the goal of physical therapy is to help restore a patient’s ability to move and function so that they can return to their prior level of activity or even exceed it.
Surgery is usually recommended for fractures that are severe or if the bones are displaced, which means they do not line up properly. Surgery typically involves realigning the bone and stabilizing it with screws, plates, rods, wires, or pins. This will help ensure proper healing and alignment of the wrist joint. A cast may then be used to immobilize the wrist and protect it from moving while it heals. Surgery may also be necessary to repair any damage to ligaments, tendons, or other soft tissues in the area. Recovery time from surgery depends on the severity of the fracture and can take anywhere from several weeks to months. After recovery, physical therapy is often recommended to help restore strength and range of motion in the wrist.
Medication can be used to treat a fractured wrist in several ways. Pain medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help to reduce the discomfort associated with a fracture. Corticosteroids can also be prescribed to reduce inflammation around the affected area. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics if there is an infection in the area. Surgery may be recommended if the fracture is particularly severe or if another treatment has not been successful in healing it. During surgery, a doctor may realign the bones and stabilize them with plates, screws, wires, or pins. Physical therapy can help to restore range of motion and strength following a fracture and will likely be recommended by a doctor. It can also help to reduce pain and swelling in the affected area. The best type of treatment for a fractured wrist will depend on its severity, as well as any other medical conditions the individual may have.
These are the five most common forms of treatment for a fractured wrist. Each case is different, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s orders and follow their advice when it comes to treatment. With the right treatment, a fractured wrist can be healed successfully and quickly. If you think you have suffered a fractured wrist, contact your doctor immediately for an evaluation. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your particular injury.
We hope this blog post has provided you with some useful insights into the different forms of treatment for a fractured wrist. Remember, no matter which treatment option is chosen, it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice and stick to the recommended protocol in order to ensure a successful recovery. We wish you the best of luck!
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