Questions and answers

How long does it take for a radius fracture to heal?

How long does it take for a radius fracture to heal?

Fractures of the distal radius usually need about 4-6 weeks for clinical bone healing, though sometimes it can take longer. It may take another 6-12 months to regain motion, strength, and function. Many people find they are resuming most of their daily activities about 3-4 months after a broken wrist.

Do radius fractures need surgery?

Distal radius fractures may be treated effectively by wearing a supportive cast or splint. For severe distal radius fractures, surgery may be necessary. Distal radius fracture repair with volar plate is a surgical procedure that uses metal implants, or plates, to help stabilize fractures in the radius near the wrist.

Is a radius fracture serious?

Signs and Symptoms of A Distal Radius Fracture Like most fractures, signs of a serious injury in this area are often obvious. While bone wrist fractures are more severe than others, the most common sign of a break in the distal radius is intense pain. A broken wrist is also characterized by swelling.

Is the radius or ulna more commonly broken when you fall?

In fact, the radius is the most commonly broken bone in the arm. The break usually happens when you fall and land on your outstretched hands. It can also happen in a car accident, a bike accident, a skiing accident, and similar situations. Sometimes, the other forearm bone (the ulna) is also broken.

How is a radius fracture treated?

Nonsurgical Treatment If the distal radius fracture is in a good position, a splint or cast is applied. It often serves as a final treatment until the bone heals. Usually a cast will remain on for up to six weeks. Then you will be given a removable wrist splint to wear for comfort and support.

Can I move my fingers with a broken wrist?

Some people can still move or use the hand or wrist even if there is a broken bone. Swelling or a bone out of place can make the wrist appear deformed. There is often pain right around the break and with finger movement. Sometimes the fingers tingle or feel numb at the tips.

How long are you off work with a broken wrist?

In general terms your wrist will take six to eight weeks to heal fully and during this time you will be unable to lift heavy items or do heavy manual work. However if you can do office-based duties you can potentially return to work with your plaster on before this time.

How long does a broken radius hurt?

What to Expect. You may have pain and swelling for 1 to 2 weeks. If you have a small fracture and your bones did not move around much, you will likely wear a splint or sling that supports your arm, elbow, and forearm.

Why does my radius bone hurt?

Overuse of the arm to push or pull and overuse of the hand by gripping, pinching, or bending the wrist can irritate the nerve and cause pain. Repeating the same movement, such as twisting the arm or wrist on the job or playing sports, squeezes the radial nerve. Over time, this can cause radial tunnel syndrome.

What does a fractured radius feel like?

Symptoms of a distal radius fracture include, but are not limited to, the following: Immediate, sharp wrist pain at the moment of a fall or accident, sometimes accompanied by the sound or sensation of a snap. Wrist swelling and tenderness, which begins right away and continues to get worse.

Can you drive with a broken wrist?

Yes and no, as there are no specific laws around driving with a broken arm or wrist, but you could get pulled over if your driving is affected by your injury.