The wrist is one of the most complex and frequently used joints in the body. It allows the hand to bend, rotate, and bear weight for countless daily activities. Because of its structure and constant use, the wrist is also one of the most commonly fractured bones in the human body.
A wrist fracture occurs when one or more of the bones in the wrist break, often due to a fall, sports injury, or accident. While some fractures are mild and heal with casting, others may involve displaced or shattered bones that require surgical repair.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we understand that a wrist fracture can significantly disrupt your work, hobbies, and quality of life. That’s why we focus on precise diagnosis, personalized treatment, and advanced recovery care for patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas.
The wrist is made up of eight small carpal bones that connect the two forearm bones — the radius and ulna — to the bones of the hand. Together, they form multiple joints that allow complex movement and flexibility.
The most common types of wrist fractures include:
- Distal Radius Fracture: The most frequent type, usually caused by falling on an outstretched hand.
- Scaphoid Fracture: A break in one of the small carpal bones near the thumb, often difficult to detect initially.
- Ulna Fracture: Sometimes occurs in combination with a radius fracture, especially after high-impact trauma.
- Complex or Comminuted Fracture: The bone shatters into multiple pieces, often requiring surgical repair.
- Intra-articular Fracture: Extends into the joint space, affecting long-term wrist stability if not treated properly.
Because the wrist contains many bones and ligaments, even a small fracture can affect motion, strength, and alignment.
Wrist fractures can result from a wide variety of incidents, though certain causes are more frequent.
- Falls: The most common cause — especially when landing on an outstretched hand to break the fall.
- Sports Injuries: Common in contact sports, skateboarding, skiing, cycling, or other high-impact activities.
- Workplace Accidents: Industrial, construction, and mechanical work increase the risk of falls or crush injuries.
- Osteoporosis: Reduced bone density, especially in older adults, makes fractures more likely from even minor falls.
- Motor Vehicle Collisions: Direct trauma can result in complex or multiple wrist fractures.
In younger patients, fractures often occur during sports or accidents. In older adults, they often happen during simple slips or falls around the home.
A wrist fracture can range from a mild crack to a displaced or shattered bone. Recognizing the symptoms early can prevent long-term stiffness and deformity.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Sudden, severe pain immediately after a fall or injury
- Swelling and bruising around the wrist and forearm
- Visible deformity or “crooked” appearance of the wrist
- Difficulty or inability to move the wrist or hand
- Tenderness to touch or pressure
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers (indicating possible nerve compression)
If you suspect a wrist fracture, do not try to move or “reset” the wrist on your own. Immobilize it and seek medical care immediately.
Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the type of fracture and prevent long-term complications.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, uses advanced imaging and hands-on evaluation to assess the severity and location of the break.
Diagnostic evaluation may include:
- Physical examination: To assess swelling, deformity, tenderness, and circulation in the hand.
- X-rays: The first-line imaging test to confirm the fracture pattern and alignment.
- CT scan: Provides a 3D view of the wrist when complex fractures are suspected.
- MRI: Used in cases where soft tissue damage, ligament tears, or scaphoid fractures are difficult to detect on X-ray.
Dr. Burke carefully evaluates the surrounding tendons, ligaments, and nerves to ensure a complete diagnosis before recommending treatment.
The goal of treatment is to restore proper bone alignment, stabilize the wrist, and preserve normal movement and strength.
The treatment approach depends on the type, severity, and displacement of the fracture.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Casting or Splinting: For simple, non-displaced fractures, immobilization allows the bone to heal naturally over several weeks.
- Closed Reduction: For displaced fractures, Dr. Burke may gently realign the bone without surgery, followed by casting or splinting.
- Medication and Cold Therapy: Help manage pain and reduce swelling.
- Once the bone begins to heal, guided exercises restore flexibility, motion, and strength.
Surgical Treatments
If the fracture is unstable, displaced, or involves the joint surface, surgery may be required.
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Dr. Burke realigns the bones and secures them with plates, screws, or pins for stability.
- External Fixation: In cases of swelling or complex injuries, a temporary external frame stabilizes the wrist while it heals.
- Bone Grafting: For fractures that involve bone loss or non-healing, grafts may be used to stimulate recovery.
Surgical care is followed by a structured rehabilitation program to promote healing, strength, and long-term mobility.
Recovery time varies depending on the type of fracture, treatment method, and overall health.
Most wrist fractures heal in 6 to 8 weeks, but full strength and flexibility can take several months to return.
During recovery:
- Keep the wrist elevated to minimize swelling.
- Avoid lifting or twisting the wrist until cleared by your physician.
- Follow-up appointments and imaging ensure proper bone alignment during healing.
- Physical Therapy plays a vital role in restoring motion and preventing stiffness.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, our care continues through every phase of recovery — from diagnosis to post-rehabilitation. Each patient receives a personalized plan designed to protect healing and prevent reinjury.
Most patients regain excellent wrist function after treatment. However, delayed or improper care can lead to complications such as:
- Chronic stiffness or limited range of motion
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Nerve irritation or tendon damage
- Malunion (healing in the wrong position)
Preventive steps include:
- Using wrist guards or protective gear for sports
- Maintaining bone health through calcium and vitamin D
- Strengthening forearm and hand muscles
- Practicing home fall prevention for older adults
Early treatment and rehabilitation under an orthopedic specialist greatly reduce the risk of complications.
You should seek prompt medical attention if:
- Pain or swelling occurs after a fall or direct trauma
- The wrist looks deformed or bent
- You cannot move your hand or fingers
- There is numbness, tingling, or bluish skin coloration
- Pain persists despite rest or icing
Immediate evaluation ensures faster recovery and prevents long-term damage.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
A wrist fracture doesn’t have to mean a permanent loss of function. With proper care and rehabilitation, most patients regain full strength and mobility.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide accurate diagnosis, expert treatment, and compassionate care to help you return to the activities you love.
Our orthopedic specialists proudly serve patients throughout Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas.
Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper extremity injuries.
