Introduction
A complex wrist fracture occurs when the wrist breaks into multiple pieces or the fracture extends into the joint. These severe fractures are more challenging to treat than simple wrist injuries and often require expert surgical care. In Duluth, patients trust Dr. Thomas Neustein, a board-certified orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon, for precise diagnosis, advanced surgical treatment, and comprehensive recovery after wrist fractures.
Why the Wrist Matters
The wrist is one of the most complex joints in the human body. It connects the forearm to the hand and allows the intricate movements that make daily life possible—gripping, writing, lifting, and twisting. When a broken bone or displaced fracture occurs, even simple tasks can become painful and difficult. Prompt evaluation ensures the bone heals properly and helps reduce pain and restore normal function.
What Makes a Wrist Fracture Complex
A complex wrist fracture involves multiple bone fragments, joint surface damage, or instability. Many wrist fractures affect the distal radius, the large bone on the thumb side of the wrist. When the articular surface is disrupted or the bones shift out of alignment, surgical treatment is often needed to restore stability and motion.
Common types of complex fractures include:
- Comminuted wrist fractures
- Intra-articular wrist fractures
- Unstable fractures involving the distal radius and ulna
- Displaced fractures requiring realignment
Common Causes of Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures can occur in people of all ages. In younger patients, they are usually caused by high-energy injuries such as sports or accidents. In older adults, even a minor fall can cause a distal radius fracture due to thinning bones or arthritis.
Frequent causes include:
Recognizing the Symptoms
- Falling on an outstretched hand
- Car, bike, or sports injuries
- Osteoporosis or brittle bones
- Repetitive trauma or prior wrist conditions
Symptoms of a wrist fracture can vary, but common warning signs include:
- Immediate pain and swelling
- Bruising and deformity of the wrist
- Difficulty moving the fingers or hand
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness from nerve compression
- Limited range of motion
If these symptoms develop after an injury, patients should seek prompt evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Proper Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is critical for optimal outcomes. At Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth, each patient receives a thorough examination and imaging review.
Diagnostic steps may include:
- X-rays to assess bone alignment and fracture pattern
- CT scans for intra-articular or complex fractures
- Nerve evaluation if numbness or tingling is present
Proper diagnosis allows Dr. Neustein to create a personalized treatment plan and identify the best treatment option for every patient.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Not every wrist fracture requires surgery. For stable or minimally displaced fractures, non-surgical wrist fracture treatment may include:
- Casting or splinting to immobilize the wrist while the bone heals
- Regular X-rays to ensure proper alignment
- Early physical therapy to restore range and strength after immobilization
Many patients recover successfully with conservative care when the bones are in the proper position and remain stable throughout healing.
Surgical Treatment for Complex Wrist Fractures
When the bones are displaced or unstable, surgical treatment may be recommended. Dr. Neustein performs advanced wrist fracture surgery techniques, including open reduction internal fixation, to restore the wrist’s structure and function.
During surgery, the broken bones are realigned and stabilized with plates, screws, or pins. In certain severe fractures, bone grafting may be required to restore strength and support healing.
What to Expect After Wrist Surgery
Wrist surgery typically requires immobilization in a splint or brace for several weeks, followed by guided therapy.
Key points include:
- Early controlled motion to prevent stiffness
- Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
- Regular X-rays to confirm the bone heals in proper alignment
- Protection from reinjury while the healing process continues
Recovery time varies by patient, but most patients return to light activity within six to eight weeks and full activity in three to four months.
The Role of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays an essential role in regaining strength, flexibility, and coordination after a wrist fracture. Therapy focuses on improving range of motion, reducing stiffness, and helping the patient regain normal hand and wrist function. Dr. Neustein’s team coordinates therapy sessions in Duluth to ensure comprehensive care from start to finish.
Healing and Recovery Timeline
Bone healing typically occurs over six to twelve weeks. However, full recovery takes longer as tendons, ligaments, and muscles regain strength. Patients can expect gradual improvement in strength and endurance with consistent follow-up and therapy.
Most fractures heal well when patients follow their treatment plan and avoid premature stress on the wrist.
Preventing Complications
Complex wrist fractures can sometimes lead to stiffness, nerve compression, or post-traumatic arthritis. Choosing a skilled orthopedic surgeon helps prevent infection, maintain proper alignment, and minimize these risks. Dr. Neustein’s meticulous approach ensures optimal healing and reduced long-term complications.
Carpal Tunnel and Nerve Compression After Fracture
After a wrist injury, swelling or scar tissue can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. This occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the fingers. In some cases, carpal tunnel surgery may be performed at the same time as fracture repair to relieve pressure and prevent lasting symptoms.
Other Hand and Wrist Conditions We Treat
In addition to complex wrist fractures, Dr. Neustein treats a full spectrum of hand and wrist conditions, including:
- Trigger finger
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Thumb arthritis
- Joint fusion procedures
- Sports medicine injuries
This comprehensive care approach ensures every patient receives complete treatment for their hand and wrist needs.
Sports Medicine and Wrist Injuries
As an upper extremity specialist, Dr. Neustein frequently manages sports-related wrist injuries such as fractures, ligament tears, and nerve compression. He provides modern treatment options designed to help athletes recover quickly and return to play safely.
Sports medicine principles are integrated into every recovery plan to improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent reinjury.
Personalized Care for Every Patient
Each patient receives individualized attention and a treatment plan tailored to their unique injury and lifestyle. Whether the patient is an athlete, musician, or office worker, Dr. Neustein provides comprehensive care and ensures they make informed decisions about their treatment.
When to See a Wrist Specialist
Patients should seek care immediately if they experience:
- Sudden wrist pain after a fall or impact
- Swelling and bruising that does not improve
- Numbness or loss of function in the fingers
- Persistent pain or stiffness after prior wrist injury
Early evaluation ensures timely treatment and the best possible recovery.
Why Choose Dr. Thomas Neustein in Duluth
Dr. Neustein is a board-certified hand and upper extremity surgeon with years of specialized experience treating complex wrist fractures and related injuries. Patients throughout Duluth and the surrounding communities trust him for his technical expertise, exceptional care, and compassionate approach to orthopedic treatment.
Comprehensive and Convenient Wrist Care
Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth provides complete hand and wrist care in one convenient location. From diagnosis to rehabilitation, every patient receives seamless care under one roof, with access to advanced imaging, therapy, and surgical facilities.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’ve suffered a complex wrist fracture or wrist injury, don’t delay treatment. Early intervention improves outcomes and reduces the risk of long-term complications. Contact Dr. Thomas Neustein at Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth to schedule your appointment today.
