What to Know About a Distal Radius

Distal Radius Fractures

- _Radius:_ Long bone on the thumb side of the forearm

- _Distal_: Part of the bone near the wrist

Fracture = broken bone

- _Epidemiology_:

- 20% of all fractures

- Most common fracture of the forearm

- _Signs/Symptoms_:

- Wrist pain

- Swelling

- Bruising

- Tenderness

- Deformity

- Limited movement

- _Treatment_:

- Immobilization with cast/splint

- Surgery for severe/complex fractures

- _Recovery_:

- Cast/splint for several weeks

- Pain management

- Physical therapy to restore movement/strength

Complications

- _Malunion:_ Bone heals in a deformed position

- _Stiffness:_ Loss of movement in the wrist

- _Nerve damage:_ Injury to nerves near the fracture

- _Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS):_ Chronic pain condition affecting limb; can lead to severe pain, loss of function, changes in skin color and temperature

Prevention

- _Falls_:

- Modify home/work environment to reduce fall risks

- Wear proper footwear for walking/exercise

- Use handrails when navigating stairs/slopes

- _Sports Injuries_:

- Wear appropriate protective gear for sports

- Learn and follow proper techniques to prevent falls/injuries

- _Bone Health_:

- Maintain a healthy diet with adequate calcium and vitamin D

- Regular weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones

- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake