A wrist fracture is one of the most common orthopedic injuries, often occurring when a person falls onto an outstretched arm. The wrist is made up of two bones—the radius and ulna—along with multiple smaller wrist bones that allow the hand to bend, rotate, and bear weight. When one of these bones breaks, especially the distal radius, it can cause significant pain, swelling, and stiffness that affects daily function.
If you’ve suffered a wrist injury or broken wrist and are searching for an Atlanta wrist fracture specialist, Dr. Thomas Neustein in Duluth offers advanced, fellowship-trained care just minutes north of Atlanta. His Emory University training and expertise in orthopaedic hand and wrist surgery make the short drive to North Metro Atlanta well worth it for patients who want top-tier care with a personal, patient-focused approach.
Understanding Distal Radius Fractures
The distal radius fracture—sometimes called a Colles fracture or Smith fracture depending on the direction of the break—is the most frequent type of broken wrist. It occurs when the end of the radius bone near the wrist joint breaks or shifts out of proper position after trauma. This often happens from a slip or fall where the palm side of the hand takes the impact.
A fractured wrist can range from a simple crack to a complex break involving multiple bone fragments, soft tissues, or even damage to surrounding nerves. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, loss of motion, and visible deformity of the wrist or forearm.
Symptoms and When to Seek Treatment
Common symptoms of a wrist fracture include:
- Immediate pain and swelling around the wrist
- Inability to move or bend the wrist
- Tenderness and stiffness of the fingers
- A visible deformity or “crooked” appearance
- Difficulty gripping or using the hand
If your wrist injury makes it hard to perform normal activities or if you heard a snap or crack at the time of the fall, you should see a hand and wrist specialist right away. Early diagnosis and stabilization prevent long-term stiffness and arthritis.
Types of Wrist Fractures
Not all wrist fractures are the same. Common patterns include:
- Colles fracture: A break on the back (dorsal) side of the radius, common after falling on an extended wrist.
- Smith fracture: A break on the palm side, typically from falling on a flexed wrist.
- Scaphoid fracture: A break in one of the small wrist bones, which can be hard to diagnose but may cause lingering pain.
- Comminuted fracture: Multiple broken fragments that may require advanced surgical reconstruction.
Each type of fracture requires a personalized treatment plan depending on alignment, stability, and the patient’s lifestyle or work demands.
Diagnosis and Imaging
Dr. Neustein performs a detailed clinical exam and uses X-rays or advanced imaging to assess the extent of the break. For complex injuries involving two bones (radius and ulna) or displaced fractures, he carefully evaluates the wrist joint and surrounding soft tissues to determine if surgical intervention is needed.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Some wrist fractures can be treated without surgery. If the bones remain in good alignment, Dr. Neustein may recommend:
Closed reduction to gently realign the fracture A splint or cast to immobilize the wrist Regular X-rays to ensure the bones heal properly Early hand therapy to minimize stiffness
These nonsurgical treatment options are ideal for stable fractures or patients with lower activity levels. Dr. Neustein’s approach ensures the wrist is supported in the proper position while still encouraging movement in the fingers and elbow to maintain circulation and prevent stiffness.
When Surgical Treatment Is Needed
If the fracture is displaced, unstable, or involves multiple broken fragments, surgical treatment provides the best chance for full recovery. Dr. Neustein performs advanced wrist fracture surgery using precise techniques that restore anatomic alignment and stability.
Modern internal fixation methods, such as plates and screws, are used to hold the bones securely while they heal. This approach allows for early motion and faster rehabilitation compared to older methods like external fixation. Occasionally, an external frame may still be used for severe injuries with extensive swelling or compromised soft tissues, but these cases are less common today.
In rare cases, fragment-specific fixation is used to individually stabilize different broken fragments, especially in high-energy injuries or when both the radius and ulna are involved.
The Surgical Experience
Wrist fracture surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or regional block anesthesia for comfort. A small incision is made over the palm side of the wrist, allowing the surgeon to realign the broken bones and place a low-profile plate and screws along the distal radius. This fixation provides strong stabilization and protects the wrist joint during healing.
After the surgery, patients wear a removable brace for protection and begin early motion exercises under the guidance of a hand therapist.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Healing from a distal radius fracture takes time, but with proper treatment, most patients achieve excellent function. Physical therapy and hand therapy begin soon after immobilization to reduce stiffness, restore range of motion, and strengthen the forearm and wrist.
Most patients regain normal movement and strength within 8–12 weeks. Older adults or those with osteoporosis may need additional time for the bones to fully heal. Dr. Neustein and his team provide detailed guidance for rehabilitation and home exercises throughout recovery.
Long-Term Outcomes
When a wrist fracture heals correctly, patients return to normal activities without pain or limitation. However, untreated or poorly aligned fractures can lead to chronic arthritis, decreased motion, or carpal tunnel syndrome due to nerve pressure from the broken radius bone or swelling.
With precise surgical intervention and expert follow-up, most patients can avoid these complications and return to full activity levels, including sports and work that require fine hand movements.
Why Atlanta Patients Choose North Metro Duluth
Patients throughout Atlanta often choose Dr. Neustein’s Duluth office because it combines the expertise of a major medical center with the accessibility of a community setting. Trained at Emory University and the Philadelphia Hand and Shoulder Center, Dr. Neustein brings world-class skill to North Metro Atlanta.
For many, it’s worth the short drive north for fellowship-trained care that focuses entirely on the hand and wrist. The Duluth clinic offers convenient parking, minimal wait times, and personal attention from start to finish—something that’s hard to find at larger Atlanta practices.
Schedule an Appointment
If you’ve suffered a broken wrist, distal radius fracture, or other wrist injury, schedule an appointment with Dr. Neustein today. Early evaluation and proper management can make all the difference in your recovery and long-term function.
Get the advanced care you deserve—Atlanta-trained expertise, right here in North Metro Atlanta.
