What Is a Wrist Fracture?
A wrist fracture occurs when one or more bones in the wrist break due to trauma or excessive force. Wrist fractures are among the most common orthopedic injuries and can range from small cracks to complex breaks involving the joint surface.
The wrist is made up of multiple small bones along with the radius and ulna in the forearm. Fractures often occur after falls onto an outstretched hand, sports injuries, or accidents and may affect wrist stability, strength, and motion.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained hand and wrist specialists provide comprehensive fracture care designed to restore alignment, function, and mobility while minimizing long-term complications.
Symptoms of a Wrist Fracture
- Severe wrist pain after an injury
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness around the wrist joint
- Difficulty moving the wrist or hand
- Weakness or inability to grip objects
- Visible deformity in severe fractures
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
Causes & Risk Factors
Wrist fractures are commonly caused by trauma or direct impact to the hand and wrist.
- Falls onto an outstretched hand
- Sports-related injuries
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Workplace injuries
- High-impact trauma
- Osteoporosis or weakened bones
- Previous wrist injuries
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed examination of the wrist and surrounding structures.
- Physical examination of the wrist and hand
- Assessment of swelling, tenderness, and deformity
- Evaluation of nerve and blood vessel function
- X-rays to identify fracture location and severity
- CT scans or MRI imaging for complex injuries when needed
Accurate diagnosis is important to help ensure proper healing and restore long-term wrist function.
Treatment Options for Wrist Fractures
Non-Surgical Treatment
Some wrist fractures can heal without surgery when the bones remain properly aligned. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Splinting or casting
- Temporary immobilization
- Ice and anti-inflammatory medications
- Pain management
- Follow-up imaging to monitor healing
- Physical or occupational therapy during recovery
Surgical Treatment
More severe or displaced fractures may require surgery to restore alignment and stability. Surgical treatment may involve plates, screws, pins, or external fixation devices depending on the injury pattern. Our orthopedic hand specialists use advanced surgical techniques designed to support healing and help patients regain wrist strength and mobility.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the fracture and the treatment approach used.
- Minor fractures may heal within several weeks
- More complex injuries may require several months of recovery
- Physical or occupational therapy may help restore wrist motion and strength
- Gradual return to sports, work, and lifting activities is important during healing
Our team closely monitors healing progress and works with patients throughout rehabilitation to help restore comfortable wrist function.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our hand and wrist specialists provide expert fracture care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for wrist fractures and other upper extremity injuries.
- Experienced hand and wrist specialists
- Advanced fracture evaluation and imaging
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Personalized rehabilitation and recovery plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for a wrist fracture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my wrist is fractured?
Severe pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, or difficulty moving the wrist after an injury may indicate a fracture and should be evaluated promptly.
Can wrist fractures heal without surgery?
Some fractures heal successfully with casting or splinting, while more severe fractures may require surgical repair.
How long does a wrist fracture take to heal?
Healing time varies depending on the injury, but many wrist fractures require several weeks to several months for full recovery.
Will I need therapy after a wrist fracture?
Many patients benefit from physical or occupational therapy to help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion after healing.
When should I see a specialist?
If you experience wrist pain, swelling, deformity, or difficulty using your hand after an injury, you should seek orthopedic evaluation as soon as possible.