Broken Arm or Wrist

A broken arm or wrist, also known as a fracture, occurs when one or more of the bones in the arm or wrist are cracked or broken. This can happen due to various reasons such as falls, sports injuries, or direct blows to the area.

Types of Fractures

• Non-displaced fracture: The bone is cracked but still in its normal position.
• Displaced fracture: The bone is broken into two or more pieces and is out of place.
• Comminuted fracture: The bone is broken into three or more pieces.
• Greenstick fracture: A type of fracture that occurs in children, where the bone is bent but not completely broken.

Symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Swelling or bruising
• Difficulty moving the arm or wrist
• Deformity or abnormal shape of the arm or wrist
• Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers

Causes

• Falls onto an outstretched hand
• Sports injuries, such as football or hockey
• Direct blows to the arm or wrist
• Osteoporosis, which can weaken bones and make them more prone to fractures

Treatment

• Immobilization: The affected area is immobilized in a cast or splint to allow the bone to heal.
• Pain management: Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the bones.
• Physical therapy: After the bone has healed, physical therapy may be recommended to regain strength and mobility in the arm or wrist.

Complications

• Nerve damage
• Blood vessel damage
• Infection
• Malunion or nonunion of the bone, which can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility

Prevention

• Wearing protective gear, such as wrist guards, during sports activities
• Avoiding falls by using handrails when walking up or down stairs
• Maintaining strong bones through a healthy diet and regular exercise
• Avoiding osteoporosis by getting enough calcium and vitamin D

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a broken arm or wrist?
A fracture in one or more bones of the arm or wrist.

What are the symptoms of a broken arm or wrist?
Pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.

How is a broken arm or wrist diagnosed?
X-rays and physical examination.

What are the types of fractures that can occur in the arm or wrist?
Closed, open, displaced, and non-displaced fractures.

How long does it usually take to recover from a broken arm or wrist?
Typically 4-6 weeks for a simple fracture.

Can a broken arm or wrist be treated at home?
No, medical attention is required for proper treatment.

What are the common causes of a broken arm or wrist?
Falls, sports injuries, and accidents.

Can surgery be necessary to treat a broken arm or wrist?
Yes, in some cases, especially for complex fractures.

How can a broken arm or wrist be prevented?
Wearing protective gear during sports and being mindful of surroundings.

Are there any potential complications of a broken arm or wrist?
Infection, nerve damage, and long-term mobility issues.