![]() Small, occult, or intra-articular fractures may not be noted on initial radiography. Oblique views can be used to supplement the basic series if the presence of a fracture remains in doubt. Standard radiography should include posteroanterior and lateral views. Much of the subsequent management is based on the radiologic evaluation of the fracture. Patients with an olecranon fracture are candidates for nonsurgical treatment if the elbow is stable and the extensor mechanism is intact. Mason type I radial head fractures can be treated with a splint for five to seven days or with a sling as needed for comfort, along with early range-of-motion exercises. Isolated ulnar fractures can usually be managed with a short arm cast or a functional forearm brace. Distal radius fractures with minimal displacement can be treated with a short arm cast. Initial management of forearm fractures should follow the PRICE (protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation) protocol, with the exception of compression, which should be avoided in the acute setting. In the absence of these findings, many forearm fractures can be managed by a primary care physician. ![]() Fractures demonstrating significant displacement, comminution, or intra-articular involvement may also warrant orthopedic consultation. Open fractures, joint dislocation or instability, and evidence of neurovascular injury are indications for emergent referral. Proper initial assessment includes a detailed history of the mechanism of injury, a complete examination of the affected arm, and appropriate radiography. It will help protect your wrist if you fall.Fractures of the forearm are common injuries in adults. Wear a wrist guard if you do activities that raise your risk of getting a Colles’ wrist fracture. Strength training routines, which include exercises like weightlifting, target the muscles and bones in the upper half of your body. Weight-bearing exercises such as jogging strengthen the bones and muscles in the lower half of your body. ExerciseĮxercise helps strengthen your bones and muscles, which makes you less likely to fall and fracture a bone. You can take supplements if you can’t get enough from sunlight and your diet. Eating foods that contain vitamin D, such as salmon, can help you get the amount you need. You may need additional vitamin D if you don’t go outside much or if you use sunscreen every time you’re in the sun. You can get enough vitamin D from sunlight. If your diet isn’t giving you enough calcium, you can make up for it by taking calcium supplements. Make sure you’re getting enough calcium by eating dark, leafy green vegetables and low-fat dairy products fortified with calcium. Preventing a Colles’ wrist fracture Nutrition You’ll do exercises to help rebuild strength in your wrist and regain your normal range of motion. Physical therapyĭepending on the severity of your injury, you might have to work with a physical therapist or occupational therapist. After surgery, you may need to wear a splint or cast to immobilize your wrist and help with pain relief. Your bones will be straightened and held together using pins, a plate and screws, or an external device that holds the pins in place. If your wrist is severely fractured, your doctor will recommend surgery to correct it. In most cases, the cast is taken off after a few weeks. This procedure, called a reduction, is done before your wrist is put in the cast. ![]() They may need to straighten the bone if the fracture is displaced. If your fracture isn’t serious, your doctor might place your wrist in a lightweight cast or splint and let it heal. Go straight to the emergency room if the pain is severe or if your wrist is numb. Schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately, or go to an urgent care center for medical treatment. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help relieve pain.ĭon’t try to straighten your wrist, and avoid moving it around. Putting an ice pack on the injury also helps reduce swelling. Elevate your wrist above the level of your heart to prevent further swelling. You can simply use a magazine wrapped around your wrist to help support it. The most important treatment initially is immobilizing your wrist in a splint. ![]()
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