Broken Wrist Wrist Fracture

Overview

A broken wrist is a break in one or more of the bones that make up the wrist joint. It usually happens when you fall on an outstretched hand. Most wrist fractures heal well with proper care.

Yes, it's one of the most common fractures, especially after falls. Many people have had a broken wrist at some point.

Anyone can break their wrist, but it is very common in children, younger adults during sports or accidents, and older adults with weaker bones.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in the wrist that gets worse when you move it
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness
• Difficulty holding or gripping objects
• A visible bump or unnatural bend in the wrist

Symptoms in children

• Children may cry or refuse to move the wrist
• They may not be able to describe pain clearly
• Swelling might be quick, even if the child says it doesn't hurt

Symptoms in older adults

• Pain that may be less sharp but still limits movement
• More bruising and swelling around the wrist
• Sometimes the wrist feels weak and unstable

Causes

Main causes

• Falling on an outstretched hand
• A direct blow to the wrist (for example, a car accident or sports injury)
• Twisting the wrist forcefully

Risk factors

• Osteoporosis or weakened bones
• Playing sports like skating, skiing, or football
• Older age (especially over 50)
• Having had a previous fracture

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Severe pain or swelling
• The wrist looks deformed or out of place
• You can't move your fingers or wrist
• Numbness or tingling in your hand

Book a routine appointment if:

• Wrist pain that lasts more than a few days
• Pain while carrying or lifting things
• A previous wrist injury that doesn't feel better

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask how you injured your wrist and examine it for swelling, bruising, and tenderness. They will also check the movement and feeling in your hand and fingers.

Tests that may be done

• X-ray — the most common way to see a fracture
• CT scan or MRI — if the X-ray is unclear or the injury is complex

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor may gently press on your wrist and ask you to move it. An X-ray takes only a few minutes. If it's a simple fracture, you may go home with a splint or cast. If it's more severe, the doctor may refer you for further treatment.

Treatment

Treatment aims to keep the bones aligned while they heal, reduce pain, and restore full use of your wrist. Many wrist fractures are treated without surgery, using a cast or splint for several weeks.

Self-care at home

• Rest your wrist and avoid lifting or gripping with that hand
• Apply a cold pack wrapped in a towel for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling
• Keep the wrist raised on pillows when you rest
• Take over-the-counter pain relief as advised by a pharmacist or doctor

Medical treatments

Your doctor may put a cast or splint on your wrist to keep the bones still while they heal. If the bone fragments have moved out of place, the doctor may need to realign them before casting. This is called a closed reduction. You may be given some form of anaesthetic or sedation so you don't feel pain. After casting, you will have regular check-ups and X-rays to monitor healing. Painkillers may be recommended, but always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's advice on what is safe for you.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery may be needed if the fracture is unstable, the bone pieces cannot be aligned properly, or the injury affects a joint. Surgery usually involves placing small plates, screws, or pins to hold the bone in position while it heals.

Living with this condition

For the first few weeks, the cast or splint will limit what you can do with that hand. Try to use your other hand for daily tasks like eating, writing, and dressing. Your doctor will tell you how long to keep the cast on, usually around 4 to 8 weeks. After the cast is removed, your wrist may feel stiff and weak for a while. This is normal.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear a protective wrist guard if you're doing activities like skating or cycling
• Avoid heavy lifting with the injured wrist until your doctor says it's safe
• Take care when walking on slippery surfaces to avoid another fall

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with enough calcium and vitamin D helps bone healing. Good sources include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods. After the cast is removed, gentle exercises or physiotherapy can help restore movement and strength. Follow your doctor's advice on when to start.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Recovering from any injury can feel frustrating, especially if you depend on your hands for work or leisure. It's normal to feel a bit down while you wait for healing. Try to stay connected with friends and family, and talk to your healthcare provider if low mood continues.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk by keeping your bones strong, improving your balance, and avoiding falls. Regular weight-bearing exercise like walking or dancing helps maintain bone density. Check your home for trip hazards like loose rugs or clutter.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for fractures. However, staying up to date with routine vaccines, such as for flu or shingles, can help prevent illnesses that might lead to falls or weakness.

Screening programmes

Doctors may recommend a bone density scan for women over 65 or for anyone who has had a fracture after a minor fall. This can help identify osteoporosis early. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether screening is right for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• If left untreated, bones can heal in the wrong position, causing a permanent bump or deformity
• You may have long-term pain or stiffness in the wrist
• There is a higher chance of arthritis in the wrist joint later
• Nerve or blood vessel damage may go unnoticed and cause serious problems

Long-term outlook

The vast majority of wrist fractures heal well if treated promptly. Most people regain full or near-full movement and strength within a few months. Older adults may need extra time, but with good medical care and rehabilitation, the outlook is generally very positive.

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