Forearm fractures — involving the radius and ulna bones — are among the most common upper extremity injuries seen in both adults and children. The forearm plays a critical role in daily motion, allowing you to lift, twist, and grip. When one or both bones fracture, the result is immediate pain, swelling, and a loss of function that can affect work, recreation, and independence.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide expert evaluation and treatment for all types of forearm fractures, from minor cracks to complex breaks requiring surgical repair. Serving Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, Dr. Robert L. Burke offers advanced orthopedic care to restore alignment, strength, and range of motion with the least possible downtime.
The radius and ulna run parallel from the elbow to the wrist, working together to provide rotation and stability of the arm.
- The radius is located on the thumb side and is commonly injured in falls when a person instinctively extends their hand.
- The ulna, on the pinky side, often fractures alongside the radius during high-impact trauma or twisting injuries.
When both bones are broken — known as a both-bone forearm fracture — surgical intervention is usually required to ensure proper realignment.
Common Causes
Forearm fractures can occur due to a variety of circumstances, including:
- Sports injuries or contact sports like football, baseball, or skateboarding
- Car or motorcycle accidents
- Direct trauma, such as being struck by an object
- Bone-weakening conditions like osteoporosis
In children and young athletes, greenstick fractures (incomplete breaks) are common, while adults may experience complete or comminuted fractures where the bone shatters into multiple pieces.
Typical signs of a forearm fracture include:
- Immediate pain and tenderness after impact
- Swelling, bruising, or visible deformity
- Inability to rotate the wrist or forearm
- Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected
- A grinding sensation with arm movement
In more severe cases, the arm may appear bent or shortened, and movement is extremely painful.
Accurate diagnosis ensures the best outcome and prevents long-term complications.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination followed by imaging tests.
Diagnostic process includes:
- X-rays: Identify the type, location, and severity of the fracture.
- CT scan: Used for complex or joint-involved fractures to plan surgery.
- Physical exam: Evaluates swelling, circulation, and nerve function.
Dr. Burke’s experience in orthopedic trauma and reconstructive surgery ensures precise identification and customized treatment for every patient.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Stable or minor fractures can often be treated without surgery. Dr. Burke may recommend:
- Casting or bracing: To immobilize the bone for healing.
- Activity modification: Avoiding lifting or twisting during recovery.
- Pain management: Using anti-inflammatory medication and elevation.
- To restore motion and strength once the cast is removed.
Surgical Treatments
Complex or displaced fractures require surgical repair to ensure bones heal correctly.
Dr. Burke performs:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Realigns bones using plates, screws, or rods.
- External Fixation: Stabilizes the fracture from outside the skin using a supportive frame (for severe trauma).
- Minimally invasive approaches: Reduce soft tissue damage and promote faster recovery.
Surgical repair helps restore proper alignment and function, minimizing long-term stiffness or deformity.
Recovery timelines vary based on severity:
- Non-surgical fractures: 6–8 weeks
- Post-surgical recovery: 3–6 months, with progressive therapy
Physical therapy plays a vital role in regaining flexibility, strength, and rotation.
Full recovery includes progressive strengthening and ergonomic retraining to prevent reinjury.
Seek immediate orthopedic evaluation if:
- You experience severe pain or deformity after a fall.
- You hear a crack or feel bones shifting.
- There is visible swelling, bruising, or numbness in the hand or wrist.
Prompt treatment reduces complications like improper healing, stiffness, or chronic pain.
Serving Our Community
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, our mission is to help patients regain independence after injury through expert, compassionate care.
We proudly serve Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, offering on-site imaging, advanced surgical options, and complete rehabilitation services for forearm fractures.
