Breaking a wrist can be a painful and life-changing injury. One of the most common wrist injuries is a distal radius fracture, which happens when the larger of the two forearm bones, the radius, breaks near the wrist joint. These fractures can result from minor falls, sports accidents, or major trauma. At Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth, GA, Dr. Thomas Neustein provides expert care and advanced surgical treatment options to help patients regain strength and mobility after a broken wrist.
What Is a Distal Radius Fracture?
The distal radius is the end portion of the radius bone near the wrist. When this bone is broken, it is referred to as a distal radius fracture. It is the most frequently fractured bone in the arm and generally occurs when someone falls on an outstretched arm. This type of injury can affect the surrounding wrist bones, ligaments, nerves, and soft tissue.
Common variations of distal radius fractures include:
- Colles fracture: The fractured bone tilts upward, common in fragile bones and patients with osteoporosis.
- Barton's fracture: An intra-articular fracture involving the wrist joint surface.
- Radial styloid fracture: A break involving the pointed tip at the end of the radius.
- Comminuted fracture: When the bone breaks into more than two pieces.
Causes and Risk Factors
A broken wrist may occur from several situations, including:
- Falling on an outstretched arm during sports or daily activity.
- High-energy injuries from car accidents or major trauma.
- Minor falls in older adults with fragile bones or osteoporosis.
Because the forearm consists of two bones—the radius and ulna—injuries may sometimes involve both bones. Fracture extending into the wrist joint may lead to long-term stiffness if not treated correctly.
Symptoms of a Distal Radius Fracture
Typical signs and symptoms include:
- Immediate pain at the fracture site.
- Visible deformity, such as upward tilting of the wrist.
- Swelling and bruising of the wrist and hand.
- Difficulty moving the wrist or fingers through a full range of motion.
- Numbness or tingling if surrounding nerves or blood vessels are affected.
Diagnosis and Imaging Tests
A thorough evaluation begins with a physical examination and detailed medical history. Dr. Neustein may order X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI scan to understand the fracture pattern. Advanced imaging like computer tomography helps evaluate displaced fractured fragments, soft tissue injuries, and ligament injuries. These tools guide the treatment plan and determine whether surgical intervention is needed.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Not all distal radius fractures require surgery. Conservative treatment options may include:
- Closed reduction: A technique to realign the broken bones without surgery.
- Casting or splinting to maintain normal alignment during the healing process.
- Pain management with anti-inflammatory medications.
- Monitoring for complications like skin problems, swelling, or stiffness.
For stable fractures, non-surgical treatment allows the bone to heal naturally over several weeks.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
If the fractured bone is displaced, unstable, or involves a joint open fracture, surgical treatment is often recommended. Surgery helps restore the normal anatomy of the wrist, reduces friction in the wrist joint, and prevents long-term disability. Patients with intra-articular fractures, a wrist joint open fracture, or fractures in more than two pieces usually need surgery.
Distal Radius Fracture Surgery in Duluth, GA
At Specialty Orthopaedics, Dr. Neustein specializes in wrist fracture surgery using modern fixation techniques. The most common approach is open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). During this procedure:
- The surgeon makes a small incision at the distal end of the radius.
- The fractured fragments are realigned into their normal position.
- Metal plates and screws are used for internal fixation, stabilizing the bone while it heals.
- The surgical technique is performed in the operating room under regional or general anesthesia, sometimes with local anesthesia depending on the case.
This surgical treatment allows the radius bone to heal in correct alignment, restoring function and strength.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After surgery, patients typically wear a splint or brace for several weeks. The healing process involves:
- Early finger and wrist movements to prevent stiffness.
- A guided physical therapy program to restore motion and strength.
- Gradual return to daily activities once the bone has healed.
- Follow-up imaging to ensure proper healing of the fractured bone.
Patients can usually return to most activities within 3 to 6 months, though complete recovery may take longer, especially for complex fractures.
Everyday Life After Surgery
Most patients regain excellent function after distal radius fracture surgery. With proper therapy and adherence to the treatment plan, the majority return to normal activities, including work, sports, and hobbies. Some may notice mild stiffness or soreness, but these symptoms typically improve with continued therapy. Untreated fractures or poorly aligned healing can lead to long-term problems, which is why expert orthopedic care is essential.
Other Wrist and Hand Conditions We Treat
In addition to managing fractures, Dr. Neustein also treats conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, thumb arthritis, and other injuries of the hand and wrist. His fellowship-trained expertise ensures comprehensive care for both traumatic injuries and chronic conditions.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein in Duluth, GA
Dr. Thomas Neustein is a board-certified orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon with extensive experience in treating broken bones and complex wrist injuries. His training included orthopedic residency and subspecialty fellowship training at leading institutions, and he offers advanced surgical techniques tailored to each patient. Patients in Duluth and the surrounding area trust his skill and compassionate care to restore function and relieve pain.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you’ve suffered a distal radius fracture or broken wrist, don’t wait to get the care you need. Timely evaluation and treatment can prevent long-term problems. Call Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Neustein.
