Introduction
When a wrist fracture occurs, daily life is instantly disrupted. Simple actions such as lifting a coffee cup, typing on a computer, or carrying groceries become painful and difficult. Patients in Gainesville, GA who suffer a broken bone in the wrist should seek prompt evaluation to ensure proper healing and recovery. Professional wrist fracture treatment Gainesville GA can restore mobility, reduce pain, and help patients avoid long-term complications.
Understanding Wrist Fractures
The wrist is a complex joint made of the radius, ulna, and eight small carpal bones. A fracture may involve one or more of these bones, with the distal radius being the most common fracture site. Sometimes the ulna or scaphoid is also involved, and patients may even sustain a hand fracture at the same time. Because the wrist also contains ligaments, tendons, and nerves, associated injuries often occur. Identifying the exact type of fracture is critical for determining the right treatment.
Causes of Wrist Injuries
Most wrist fractures result from falling onto the palm with the forearm extended. Sports accidents, car crashes, and workplace injuries are other common causes. In older adults with osteoporosis, even a minor fall can lead to a break. Children and athletes are more prone to these injuries due to high activity levels. Sometimes sprains or ligament injuries accompany the fracture, which can complicate healing.
Common Symptoms
Patients with a wrist fracture often experience severe pain at the fracture site. Swelling and stiffness may develop quickly, making it difficult to move the fingers. Other symptoms include bruising, tenderness, and visible deformity. In some cases, numbness or tingling in the hand indicates nerve involvement. These common symptoms should always prompt a visit to an orthopedist for diagnosis.
Diagnosis and Imaging
Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical exam by an orthopedist. The doctor checks the skin, blood flow, and nerves in the fingers. X rays are usually performed first to determine the severity of the break. A CT scan may be ordered for complex patterns or joint involvement. The diagnosis helps determine whether the fracture can be treated with a splint or cast, or whether surgical treatment options are required. A personalized treatment plan is then created.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Stable fractures without major displacement can often be treated non-surgically. A splint may be applied immediately after injury to support the wrist and reduce swelling. Once inflammation decreases, a cast or brace is used to maintain alignment. Medications help relieve pain and control inflammation in the early phase. Physical therapy begins after the cast is removed to restore range of motion and prevent stiffness. Rehabilitation exercises help strengthen the wrist and maintain function over time.
Surgical Treatment Options
Unstable fractures, deformity, or those that fail to align properly require surgical treatment options. The surgeon may perform a fracture reduction to realign the broken bone. If closed reduction is not possible, an open reduction is performed to directly correct alignment at the fracture site. Plates, screws, or pins may then be used to stabilize the bone. These procedures are performed with great care to avoid injury to ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Surgery allows for early mobility and leads to better long-term function.
Recovery and Healing
The healing process usually takes six to twelve weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. During this period, patients may experience stiffness, swelling, or limited motion. Rehabilitation and exercises are essential to restore wrist mobility and strength. Physical therapy focuses on maintaining finger motion while gradually strengthening the forearm and wrist. With close follow-up, the risk of complications such as infection, non-union, or loss of alignment is very low. Patients who follow their rehabilitation plan rarely experience long-term disability.
Life After a Wrist Fracture
Returning to everyday life after a wrist fracture requires patience and dedication. Braces may be recommended for heavy activity or sports to provide extra support. Patients are encouraged to continue strengthening and stretching exercises at home. With proper care, most people return to work, sports, and daily activities without limitation. Full recovery of motion and function is possible in the majority of cases.
Why Choose Specialty Orthopaedics in Gainesville
Choosing the right orthopedist makes all the difference in recovery. Dr. Thomas Neustein, a board-certified orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon, specializes in treating wrist fractures and hand injuries. He offers advanced imaging, precise surgical treatment options, and customized rehabilitation programs. Patients in Gainesville benefit from expert care that restores mobility, relieves pain, and prevents long-term complications. Every treatment plan is tailored to the severity of the fracture and the needs of the individual patient.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or other symptoms after a fall, prompt treatment is essential. Do not ignore signs of a broken wrist, as delay can lead to complications. Contact Specialty Orthopaedics in Gainesville today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Neustein. Expert care is available close to home to guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
