Best Practice Case Studies-Wrist and Hand Fractures

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A wrist fracture involves a break in one of the forearm bones (ulna or radius) or any of the eight wrist bones. It commonly results from falling on an outstretched hand or a direct blow to the wrist. Typical symptoms include pain, swelling, and restricted wrist movement.<br /><br />Sports medicine evaluation for a suspected wrist fracture includes a thorough examination of both the injured and uninjured wrist, hand, and thumb. X-rays are usually performed to confirm a diagnosis, but sometimes further imaging like CT or MRI might be required. If the initial x-ray doesn’t show a fracture, a follow-up x-ray after 1-2 weeks can be helpful.<br /><br />Treatment options depend on the fracture type. Generally, the wrist is immobilized in a cast or splint for 4-12 weeks, depending on the affected bone. Initial swelling might necessitate using a splint before applying a cast. Pain management may involve ice, elevation, and medication. In some cases, physicians realign the bones before applying a splint. If alignment is unachievable or healing is inadequate, surgery may be necessary.<br /><br />Preventing wrist fractures is challenging as they often arise from accidental falls. Nonetheless, using protective wrist splints in certain sports might mitigate risk, and maintaining strength and conditioning for sports participation is recommended.<br /><br />The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) oversees these evaluations and treatments. They emphasize that a qualified sports medicine physician should guide a safe return to sports, typically 6-8 weeks post-injury, ensuring the wrist has recovered with full strength, pain-free motion, and protective capability during activity. Rehabilitation may also be required to regain function and strength.

Meta Tag

Edition 2nd Edition

Related Case 2nd Edition, CASE 16

Topic Hand and Wrist

Keywords

2nd Edition, CASE 16

2nd Edition

Hand and Wrist

wrist fracture

forearm bones

ulna

radius

sports medicine

X-rays

treatment options

surgery

AMSSM

rehabilitation